It is a phenomenon that amazes us. On the stalk or pseudobulb of an orchid, new leaves will sprout where flowers should actually develop. Read here what strategy the plant is pursuing with it. This is how you benefit from the natural phenomenon.
New leaves on the stem can be used for propagation
An unorthodox propagation strategy
With their epiphytic growth, Phalaenopsis, Epidendrum or Dendrobium are out of the ordinary. In their homeland, the flowers sit on the branches of jungle giants, where they cling with their roots. Since there is little space here to produce offshoots and offspring, the clever orchids have developed this ingenious strategy:
- In advanced age, new leaves sprout on the stalk or flower stem
- Over the next few months, aerial roots will form beneath the leaves
The new leaves are therefore daughter plants - also known as Kindel or Keiki.
Tips for caring for kindles on the flower stalk
For the first few months, an orchid child is not viable without the connection to the mother plant. Spray the cutting regularly as new leaves and aerial roots continue to form. If necessary, support the flower stalk with a stick so the extra weight doesn't break it.
Only when an offshoot has at least 2 leaves and 2-3 aerial roots can it be separated from the mother. To do this, cut off the kindel with a clean knife. Fill a transparent culture pot with fine-grained orchid substrate (€8.00) for young plants over drainage made of expanded clay. (€19.73) Plant the daughter plant in it and water it.
High humidity activates growth
In view of the small leaf volume and the sparse aerial roots, the offshoot is dependent on high humidity in the first few months. Therefore, place the growing pot in a mini greenhouse. (7.95€) Alternatively, put a perforated plastic bag over the container, which is aired several times a day.
tips
If a Phalaenopsis puts out basal new leaves but no flowers, the plant gathers fresh energy for the growth of young flower stalks. Continue the care in the bright location with regular dipping and fertilizing unabated. Reducing temperatures by 5 degrees Celsius below normal levels will aid in flower induction.