How to Separate Phalaenopsis Keikis and the Right Size for Transplanting
When growing Phalaenopsis orchids, spotting a keiki on the plant means you have a chance to propagate a new plant. However, mastering the correct methods of separating and transplanting the keiki is crucial, as it determines whether the new plant can grow healthily.
When the keiki of a Phalaenopsis grows to 2 - 3 cm in height and has at least one mature leaf, it is the right time to transplant. At this point the keiki already has some ability to survive on its own, and it is more likely to survive after transplanting. At the same time, pay attention to the health of the keiki; be sure to choose a robust, pest- and disease-free keiki for transplanting, otherwise a weak or diseased keiki may struggle to grow well after transplanting and may even affect the health of the mother plant.
Besides the growth indicators of the keiki itself, the timing of transplanting is also key. Spring or autumn is preferable, as temperatures in these two seasons are suitable, neither too hot nor too cold, which helps the keiki quickly take root and sprout after transplanting and adapt to its new environment. In summer, with high temperature and high humidity, pathogens multiply actively, and the wound is prone to infection and rot after transplanting; in winter, with low temperatures, Phalaenopsis grows slowly, the keiki takes a long time to recover after transplanting, and the survival rate is also affected.
How to separate the keiki of a Phalaenopsis
Preparation: Before separating the keiki, prepare sharp, sterilized scissors or a blade to avoid unnecessary damage to the keiki and the mother plant during cutting and to reduce the risk of pathogen infection. You can also prepare some carbendazim powder or cigarette ash to apply to the wound, preventing infection and promoting wound healing.
Separation procedure: With sterilized scissors or a blade, carefully cut at the connection point between the keiki and the mother plant. The action should be gentle and precise, trying to preserve the keiki's root system, because the roots are important organs for the keiki to absorb nutrients and water, and an intact root system can greatly improve the survival rate of the keiki after transplanting. If the keiki has already grown several aerial roots, to avoid damaging the aerial roots you can also carefully pry the young plant off by hand, but this method leaves a relatively rough wound, so after the operation be sure to disinfect the wounds of both the young plant and the mother plant.
Transplanting into a pot: After separation, the keiki should be transplanted into a new pot as soon as possible. First spread a layer of special orchid potting mix on the bottom of the pot, plant the keiki in the soil, and press gently so that the keiki makes full contact with the soil and stands firmly. Water once to settle the roots, with an amount that thoroughly moistens the soil but does not leave it waterlogged. After watering, place the newly planted keiki in a cool, ventilated spot away from direct sunlight, letting it adapt to its new growing environment in relatively stable conditions.
For the first few days after division, only mist the tips of the young plant's aerial roots, avoiding water on the wound to prevent infection. After about a week, once the wound has completely healed, mist the base of the young plant to encourage more aerial roots to grow. Once the keiki has grown several aerial roots, you can care for it normally.
Mastering the techniques for separating and transplanting Phalaenopsis keikis not only lets us propagate new plants, but also lets us experience the joy and sense of accomplishment of growing flowers. As long as you follow the correct methods and steps and care for them patiently, these keikis can grow into beautiful Phalaenopsis orchids.