Orchids are known and appreciated for their intricate, long-lasting blooms. They come in many varieties with different sizes, colors and aromas, and incorporate a wide range of growing conditions, from low-light indoor areas to more tropical outdoor setups.
Some orchids are relatively easy to care for, but others can be finicky and more difficult to maintain. So once you find the perfect orchid, you may want to start propagating more for your home or garden. We chatted with orchid experts about three methods you should know for propagating and some best practices for nurturing these gorgeous plants from start to finish.
Propagating From Division
Propagating an orchid through division involves the separation of the plant into smaller sections— each has its own set of growth points and roots. “Choose a mature plant that’s already established—typically one that has growths,” says Tammy Sons, founder and CEO of TN Nursery.
Sterile tools such as pruning sheers, a knife, or scissors are a necessity, as they help protect against disease. You should also remove any old soil from the root when transferring the plant from its pot. Then, examine the flower, identifying the sections that have their own roots or articles, such as eyes or leaves.
Some species will even have pseudobulbs—an enlarged portion of the stem that stores nutrients. “Each division should typically have at least three pseudobulbs,” says Sons. “Using your sterilized tools, carefully separate each section to ensure every division is partnered with a sufficient amount of roots. Next, individually re-pot each division with fresh orchid medium, like sphagnum moss or bark.”
New divisions only require light watering; place each in an area that’s humid and bright—though not in direct sunlight. “Warmer environments help them re-establish and continue to grow,” adds Sons.
Propagating From Cuttings
Division is the typical way to section orchids and propagate them, according to Sons, but some species, like Dendrobium, can be propagated from cuttings instead.
Matt Ramos, owner of Plant Sensation & Co., says you typically want to choose a stem with a healthy node—a small bump where roots or new growth can form. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the stem just below the node, then place the cutting in a pot with an orchid mix, making sure the node is slightly buried.
“Keep the cutting in a warm, humid spot with indirect light,” he says. “It may take a few weeks for roots to start forming, so patience is key. Once the cutting has roots, you can treat it like a mature orchid.”
Propagating From Seed
Sons describes propagating orchids from seeds as a more complex and tedious process, as orchid seeds lack stored nutrients and rely solely on fungi to germinate. If you still want to give it a try, then start by collecting seeds from a mature orchid pod. “The seeds should be sterilized before they’re planted,” she says. “Soak them in a mild bleach solution, and rinse thoroughly afterward.”
You’ll need a clean container or petri dish and a specialized orchid seed mixture—or an agar-based medium, which is a gelatin-like substance that comes from red algae. “Sprinkle the seeds onto the surface of a petri dish or sterilized flask,” says Sons. “They should be evenly distributed—but not buried—as they’ll need light to begin germinating.”
Keep the container in a warm and humid environment that stays between 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. “It will take several months for the seeds to germinate and further form,” adds Sons. “The plants will mature and eventually be ready to transfer to individual pots.”
Caring for Propagated Orchids
Once the orchids have developed roots and leaves, transplant them into small pots with well-draining orchid mix.
Sunlight
Direct sunlight can scorch your new plants, but indirect sunlight is a must—receiving too little light will stunt their growth. Sons advises between 50 to 70 percent humidity.
“Using a humidity tray is one way to achieve this, though misting the plant or placing it in a humid area like a bathroom will help maintain moisture,” she says. “Orchids generally prefer warmer temperatures, and you should avoid placing them in an area where the temp tends to fluctuate—like near an air conditioner or a heater.”
Watering
“Keep the newly propagated orchids moist but never soaked, as overwatering them can lead to rot, and underwatering can lead to stunted growth,” says Sons. “Allow the medium the orchids are potted in to dry out slightly between watering, and use lukewarm water.”
Fertilizer
Sons suggests using a diluted and balanced orchid fertilizer the moment the flowers begin to establish roots or show new growth. “Apply this once a month, or according to instructions on the fertilizer package,” she says. “To re-pot orchids, place them into a larger container with a well-draining, fresh orchid mix.”
