How to Regrow Orchids

Propagation orchids is challenging but worthwhile.

Wild orchids grow from a testicle-shaped root, which is how they got their name. Orchis means testicle in Greek. They are among the largest of all plant families, comprising some 25,000 wild species, according to Gustave Schoser, author of "Orchid Growing Basics." Most orchids live in trees, attaching themselves with long, white "air" roots. These roots absorb water and nutrients. Regrowing an orchid through propagation is challenging but worth the effort. Getting an orchid to re-bloom is less challenging.

Things You'll Need

• Knife
• Orchid bark or orchid potting soil
• Orchid plant
• Pencil
• U pin

Instructions

Propagation

1. Remove from the pot an orchid that looks like it is splitting into two or more plants. Each new plant must have at least three shoots or stems. More shoots are acceptable and fewer means the plant won't be strong enough to live.

2. Spread the air roots apart and gently detangle them. Separate the plants. If you have to cut the plants apart, cover the cut with sawdust

3. Fill an orchid pot one-quarter full with orchid bark or orchid potting mix.

4. Place each separated plant in its own pot. Spread the air roots over the bark. Tuck in additional bark, or soil, so the roots are covered. Push the bark in place, using a pencil Continue until the pot is full. The top of the main root should barely be covered with bark.

5. Secure the plant in the pot with a U pin.

6. Water the plant by placing the pot in a cup or glass that is barely larger than the pot. Pour in water until it reaches the top of the pot. Don't overfill or the bark will start floating. Leave the pot in the glass for 30 minutes.

Regrowing Orchids to Bloom

1. Move the plants at night to a room, porch, garage or outdoor area where the temperatures fall to 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit at night but no cooler. Move them back to a warmer place, between 68 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, during the day.

2. Continue the cooler night-time temperatures for two weeks to a month. The late fall is the best time. This temperature change should encourage the orchid to throw out a flower spike.

3. Give the plants 60-degree Fahrenheit water as needed. Submerge the pots until the rim is barely underwater. Let them sit in the water for 30 minutes. Drain and return the plants to their normal spot.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use regular potting soil for orchids.

References

• "Orchid Growing Basics"; Gustav Schoser; 1993
• Orchid Plants: Phalaenopsis Orchids