There are a few different ways to propagate orchids, but the real secret to success lies in how you handle those delicate young plants. If you want to turn a tiny seedling into a stunning, exotic showstopper, you’ve come to the right place! Here’s my guide on how to raise a healthy orchid baby from the ground up.
Choosing the Right Potting Mix
When you’re dealing with young plants, your potting substrate needs a little extra prep. Since baby roots are much smaller and more fragile than adult ones, you’ll want to break up any large chunks of bark so they can actually get a grip. It’s also a smart move to sterilize the mix before use to keep things clean. Just pop it in the oven at 300°F (about 150°C) for half an hour, and you’re good to go!
Potting Your Orchid Babies
Size definitely matters when planting young orchids. You want a pot that matches the size of the root system—so start small! If you’re feeling social and want to put several seedlings together in a “community pot,” just make sure the container is sized up accordingly. When you tuck them in, make sure the root neck (where the roots meet the stem) stays just above the substrate so it can breathe.
The Best Care for Young Plants
For the most part, orchid babies like the same things their parents do. They thrive in a warm, bright location, ideally with temperatures sitting between 73°F and 77°F (23-25°C).
Because these little guys don’t have many leaves or air roots yet, they are super sensitive to dry air. I recommend misting them daily with lukewarm, filtered water. To really give them that tropical “spa” feel, you can place them in a mini indoor greenhouse or loosely cover them with clear plastic wrap. Just remember to lift the cover daily for some fresh air to prevent any mold from moving in.
Waiting for the First Bloom
Patience is a virtue in the orchid world! It usually takes about two to three years for a young plant to mature enough to produce its first buds. If you’re growing from seed, be prepared for the long haul—it can take anywhere from five to fifteen years before you see that first spectacular flower.
Orchid Babies in Flasks
Sometimes you’ll buy “flasked” orchids that are grown in sterile glass bottles. To get them out safely, don’t just smash the glass! That’s a recipe for damaged roots. Instead, use a glass cutter to carefully remove the bottom of the flask. This allows you to gently slide the orchid out without any “bottle trauma.”