What are the methods for propagating orchids by "covering the old pseudobulb"?

Orchids are one of the four gentlemen among flowers and have high ornamental value, and many people grow orchids for enjoyment. However, orchid propagation requires certain techniques. There is a method of propagation by covering the old pseudobulb, which is simple and has a relatively high survival rate. Let's take a look below at the methods for propagating orchids by covering the old pseudobulb.

I. Methods for propagating orchids by covering the old pseudobulb

1. Sphagnum covering method: Wrap the old pseudobulb in sphagnum, which is both breathable and well-draining, then plant it into the soil, keep it moist, and wait for it to sprout.

2. Sand pot covering method: The sand pot covering method for orchids' old pseudobulbs is relatively simple. Whether the old pseudobulb has leaves or not, insert it directly into a sand pot, leaving the stem generally outside the sand to maintain respiration, keep the pot soil moist, place it in a cool place, and keep the surrounding environment humid. Generally, if the old pseudobulb itself has no problems, it will sprout.

3. Casual covering method: Among the methods for propagating orchids by covering the old pseudobulb, this is the most casual one, which we name the casual method, generally carried out in spring. Prepare small-particle potting medium, plant the old pseudobulb into it, keep the environment moist and humid, place it in a cool place, and wait for it to sprout and grow seedlings.

II. Other propagation methods for orchids

1. Division propagation: Orchid division propagation is generally carried out in spring. Gently pull the orchid plant out of the flower pot, remove the soil, and do not damage the roots. Select a robust stem, preferably with more than 5 pseudobulbs, cut it off from the main root with a sharp knife, let the wound dry, plant it into a prepared flower pot, water it thoroughly, first place it in a cool place to recover, and after a few days of acclimation, normal care can be resumed.

2. Orchid seed propagation is rarely used because orchid seeds have almost no embryos, and it is very difficult for them to germinate after sowing. A few have incompletely developed embryos, but the survival rate is very low, so seed propagation is generally not recommended.

3. Tissue propagation: Large-scale orchid propagation generally uses tissue culture. With modern advanced technology, scientific culture and propagation can be carried out. Tissue culture propagation is suitable for large-scale propagation, that is, placing orchid new shoots in culture solution, roots can form in about a week, and after rooting they can be transplanted into water for culture, and when they grow larger they can be transplanted into soil for planting.

Orchid flowers have a light fragrance and elegant colors, making them very suitable for growing indoors. The above propagation methods are hoped to help you better grow orchids.