From my perspective as an orchid, the growth of a keiki is not a gift for you, but a vital survival mechanism. I typically produce these "baby plants" when I am under significant stress, perhaps from a drastic change in my environment, an issue with my root system, or simply as I reach the end of my natural life cycle. It is my way of ensuring my genetic lineage continues. By cloning myself, I produce a new, genetically identical plant that can carry on when the original mother plant is no longer thriving. It is my instinct for self-preservation manifesting as a new growth on my flower spike or base.
For this propagation to be successful, you must understand when my keiki is ready for independence. I will not relinquish it until it is fully prepared to survive on its own. A keiki must develop several key features. Most importantly, it must have a robust root system. Look for at least two or three roots that are a healthy green or silver color and are approximately two to three inches long. These roots are essential for absorbing water and nutrients. The keiki should also have two to three of its own leaves, which will be crucial for photosynthesis. Attempting to remove it before these conditions are met would be a death sentence for the young plant, defeating my entire purpose for creating it.
When the time is right, the separation must be performed with precision and care to minimize trauma to both me (the mother plant) and the keiki. You will need a sterile, sharp cutting tool, such as a razor blade or pruning shears. Carefully cut the stem (the flower spike) about an inch or two above and below the point where the keiki is attached. This ensures the keiki has a small section of the stem for stability. Alternatively, if the keiki is on a cane, you may gently twist it until it snaps off at its natural abscission layer. It is critical that your tools are sterile to prevent introducing pathogens into our fresh wounds.
Once separated, the keiki's journey to independence begins. It must be potted in a suitable medium that provides excellent aeration and drainage, such as a fine-grade orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss. The pot should be small, just large enough to accommodate its new root system. Do not bury the base of the keiki too deeply, as this can lead to rot. Initially, the young plant will require a humid environment and consistent, but not excessive, moisture as its roots adapt to their new substrate. It is still reliant on the energy stored in its leaves and roots until it can establish a stronger connection with its new environment and begin vigorous growth on its own.
