You are in love with your orchid and the elegance it brings into your home. Most orchid owners feel this way and it is only natural to desire more of these graceful flowers. Of course you can run out to the local plant shop and buy another bloom, but you've got everything you need to breed your own at home. Don't be afraid, there are three very simple steps required to orchid propagation and you will be successful, even if you have never done it before.
Orchid propagation is a big fancy word for taking a growth from a parent plant and using it to cultivate a new and separate plant. Most orchids develop pseudo bulbs during their active periods, which are perfect for the propagation process. These growths already contain water and nutrients and can easily be separated from the plant.
Orchids
Springtime is the best time to undergo the task of propagating orchids using this method because the pseudo bulbs are present and so are the environmental conditions necessary for these plants to thrive.
Here are three easy steps to get you on your way to propagating orchids:
First Step: Prepare the Pot
The root systems of an orchid can be rather temperamental. It is important to keep them relatively dry and well ventilated for orchid propagation. There are several things you can do to keep them happy and healthy. You should start off with a small pot that is made of a porous and natural material such as earthenware. This will help absorb any excess water from the potting matter to help keep the roots dry. So that your new growth from orchid propagation is protected from bacteria and fungi, it is necessary to sanitize the pot, tools and even your hands.
Second Step: Prepare the Filler
In order to provide the best possible environment for your orchid propagation, you should use a specialized filler to surround the pseudo bulb in its new home. These mediums can be found at your local garden store and will contain an appropriate mix of large pieces of organic matter to allow maximum air flow to the roots as well as absorb excess moisture.
Third Step: Prepare the Pseudo Bulbs
This is probably the most dreaded part of propagating orchids, but you will be pleasantly surprised by how easy it actually is. You must first remove the parent orchid from its pot and make sure the roots are free from dirt. The roots are fragile, so be careful not to break them. Take out any shriveled, rotted or otherwise unhealthy parts and separate the pseudo bulbs into small groups. You'll need at least three bulbs grouped with the new growth in order to assure correct orchid propagation. If you are able, gently pull the tubers apart by hand. If it is too difficult, then you can carefully divide them with a knife. Just be sure to clean the part that you cut with a disinfectant. Now you are ready to put the cluster into the pot and surround it with the filler.
That is all it takes to propagating orchids. Orchid propagation is so simple and takes very little time, I am sure you will love it so much that you soon have your very own home grown orchid garden.
How to Breed Your Own Orchids in Three Easy Steps
Carl Harrison is an orchid enthusiast. For more great tips and advice on orchid propagation, visit http://www.theorchidresource.com