Phalaenopsis Keiki with Bud Shoot: Removal Timing, Potting Media, and Media Brands

Question:

There's a keiki on my Phalaenopsis main stem—it's sending out a bud shoot. How to remove? Where to cut? What media? Or leave alone?

Answer:

Hello Carol,

Unless it has several roots over 2 inches long, leave it alone. When roots reach ~2 inches, get a small pot (~3" diameter) and medium-grade orchid media. To remove: hold stem in one hand, keiki in the other, twist gently while pulling apart. Should break off in 4–6 twists; if not, cut it off. Put media in pot, lower roots until bottom leaf is at pot rim, fill around it. Place next to mother plant, care for both as usual.

Enjoy the bud shoot's flowers when it blooms. I have a similar situation—keiki blooming alongside mother with only one barely inch-long root.

Follow-up: Carol asks for a brand name for "medium grade orchid media" and where to find it.

Follow-up Answer:

Hi Carol,

Availability varies by location (you didn't say where). In San Jose: Wonder Bark and Sequoia brands—both good, I prefer Sequoia. Key: look for sterilized media (kills pests, bacteria, fungus). Most garden centers carrying orchids stock orchid bark. If not found, I can suggest mail-order sources.

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, CA