Not all orchid species form children or offshoots. The reasons for this are often genetic. However, many varieties of Phalaenopsis are among the plants that love to have children, making it easier for the owner to propagate, which is otherwise very complicated.

The Phalaenopsis can be multiplied wonderfully via Kindel

What are children?

Kindel are offshoots or daughter plants that grow by themselves directly on the mother plant. They often form on the stem or on the flowering shoot. For this reason, you should wait a little before pruning the Phalaenopsis after flowering. Incidentally, the children are genetically identical to the mother plant, they are practically small clones.

How often does a Phalaenopsis have babies?

The frequency of the formation of children varies, depending on the species of Phalaenopsis and the particular care. Some form offshoots relatively regularly, others only when they threaten to die. The continued existence of the species is secured through the Kindel.

Progenitors can remain on the mother plant for a very long time and even replace it when it dies. So-called stem children (=forming on the flower stalk) can be cut off and planted as soon as they are big and strong enough.

How do I care for Phalaenopsis children?

First, leave the (stalk) buds on the mother plant until they have developed a few leaves and roots. The latter should be about five centimeters long. Then cut off the flower stalk a few centimeters above and below the child with a disinfected sharp knife and plant it in a pot with orchid substrate that is not too coarse. (8.00 €)

Place the small Phalaenopsis in a warm (between 20°C and 24°C) and bright place without drafts. Make sure there is sufficient humidity, possibly by spraying with lukewarm water. In the first few weeks you should not fertilize the plant.

The essentials in brief:

  • grow on the stem or on the faded flowering stem
  • are genetically identical to the mother plant
  • should not be cut off too early, only after root formation
  • Separation only with a sharp, disinfected knife
  • Place the children in their own pot

tips

Only water the young plant after the cut has been closed (after 2 to 3 days) to avoid infection.

Category:

Indoor plants