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How Do You Remove and Plant an Orchid Keiki?

Published in Orchid Propagation 5 mins read

Removing and planting an orchid keiki, a small baby orchid clone that grows from the mother plant, is a straightforward process that allows you to propagate your beloved orchids. It involves carefully detaching the keiki once it's mature enough and then potting it in its own specialized growing medium.

When Is an Orchid Keiki Ready for Removal?

Timing is crucial for successful keiki separation. A keiki is generally ready to be removed and planted when it has developed sufficiently to thrive independently. Look for these key indicators:

  • Root Development: The keiki should have at least 2-3 roots, each at least 1-3 inches long. These roots are essential for absorbing water and nutrients in its new pot.
  • Leaf Growth: It should have developed 2-3 healthy leaves that are strong and firm, indicating vigorous growth.
  • Overall Size: The keiki should look robust and established, not frail or underdeveloped. Attempting to remove a keiki too early can significantly reduce its chances of survival.

Essential Tools for Keiki Separation and Planting

Having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother and minimize stress to both the keiki and the mother plant.

Tool Purpose
Sharp, Sterilized Pruning Shears/Razor Blade For a clean cut if the twist method isn't suitable, or to trim damaged roots.
Rubbing Alcohol For sterilizing tools before and after use to prevent disease.
Small Orchid Pot A clear plastic pot (for monitoring roots) with good drainage, sized appropriately for the keiki's root ball.
Orchid Potting Medium A specialized mix like orchid bark, sphagnum moss, or a blend, providing good aeration and drainage.
Fungicide/Cinnamon Powder To dust the cut ends of both the keiki and mother plant, preventing fungal infections.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing an Orchid Keiki

Careful handling is paramount during the separation process to avoid damaging the delicate roots and plant structure.

Preparing for Removal

  1. Sterilize Your Tools: Before you begin, thoroughly clean and sterilize your pruning shears or razor blade with rubbing alcohol. This prevents the spread of diseases to your plants.
  2. Inspect the Keiki: Gently examine the keiki's connection point to the flower stalk and its root system to determine the best approach for separation.

The Separation Process

The primary method for separating a keiki from its mother plant, as demonstrated in various guides, involves a gentle twisting motion:

  1. Locate the Connection: Identify the exact point where the keiki is attached to the flower stalk of the mother plant.
  2. Gently Twist and Separate: According to expert advice, you should "And twist around the base of the keiki that's connected to the flower stalk. And it should separate." Apply a gentle, firm twisting motion at the base of the keiki where it connects to the stalk. This should cause the keiki to cleanly detach. If the connection is too tough, you may use sterilized shears to make a clean cut as close to the flower stalk as possible without damaging the keiki's base.
  3. Apply Fungicide: Once separated, lightly dust the cut end of both the keiki and the mother plant's flower stalk (if cut) with cinnamon powder or a horticultural fungicide. This acts as an antiseptic and helps prevent infections.

How to Plant Your Orchid Keiki

Once the keiki is separated, it's ready for its new home. Proper planting is vital for its long-term health.

Choosing the Right Pot and Medium

  • Pot Selection: Select a small orchid pot (usually 2-4 inches) that can comfortably accommodate the keiki's roots without being too large, which can lead to excessive moisture. Clear plastic pots are excellent for observing root development.
  • Potting Medium: Use a high-quality, well-draining orchid potting mix. Common choices include:
    • Orchid Bark: Provides excellent aeration and drainage.
    • Sphagnum Moss: Retains moisture more effectively, ideal for keikis that need higher humidity, but requires careful watering to avoid root rot.
    • Mixtures: Blends of bark, perlite, and charcoal can offer a balanced environment.

Planting the Keiki

  1. Prepare the Pot: Place a small layer of your chosen orchid medium at the bottom of the clean pot.
  2. Position the Keiki: Hold the keiki upright in the center of the pot. Ensure its roots are spread out naturally and the base of the plant (where leaves emerge) is level with or slightly above the potting medium surface. "Then I'm going to place the keiki in the pot."
  3. Fill with Medium: Carefully fill the pot with the remaining potting medium, gently working it around the roots. Do not bury the base of the keiki too deeply, as this can lead to rot. The aerial roots can remain exposed.
  4. Gently Secure: Lightly tap the pot to settle the medium and ensure good contact with the roots. Avoid compacting the medium too much, as orchids require good air circulation around their roots.

Post-Planting Care for Your New Orchid

The first few weeks after planting are critical for your keiki's establishment.

  • Watering: Wait a few days (3-7) after potting before the first watering to allow any cut surfaces to callus over. After that, water when the medium is nearly dry. Avoid overwatering.
  • Light: Place the newly potted keiki in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate leaves.
  • Humidity: Orchids thrive in high humidity. Consider placing the pot on a humidity tray or in an area with naturally higher humidity.
  • Temperature: Maintain consistent temperatures, avoiding extreme fluctuations.
  • Fertilizing: Do not fertilize immediately. Wait until the keiki shows signs of new growth (typically a few weeks to a month) before beginning a very dilute orchid fertilizer regimen.

By following these steps, you can successfully remove and plant your orchid keiki, giving it the best chance to grow into a healthy, mature orchid.