Orchid Propagation: Aerial Roots Don't Work, Keikis Do

Brian asked if an aerial root potted in compost would make a new plant, and how to make a keiki.

Aerial Roots Cannot Produce Plants

Orchid roots lack meristematic (growth) tissue. Only keikis (adventitious plantlets on flower spikes) can become new plants.

Keiki Induction Method

1. Need Phalaenopsis type that keeps green spike after bloom.
2. Cut spike above 2nd/3rd node.
3. Move plant to dark room 1–2 weeks.
4. If no keiki: buy keiki paste (hormone).
5. Remove node sheath carefully; apply paste to node.
6. Dark room 1–2 weeks.
7. Search "node paste" or "keiki paste" for sources.