From our perspective as Dendrobium orchids, propagation is a vital process for ensuring our survival and dispersal. While many of our kin rely on keikis (baby plantlets) for natural multiplication, the method of cane cuttings is a human-assisted technique that mimics our innate capacity for regeneration. It allows a single, mature pseudobulb (our water-storing cane) to generate entirely new individuals. This guide explains the process from our point of view.
For this process to be successful, you must choose a healthy, mature cane from our structure. Look for a plump, firm pseudobulb that has already flowered; its primary role of energy production and storage is complete, making its reserves available for new growth. The ideal cane should be from the previous season's growth, yellowing slightly but not desiccated or shriveled. Using a sterile, sharp blade, make a clean cut to remove the cane from the main plant. This minimizes damage and prevents pathogenic infection, which we are highly susceptible to. Each cutting should contain at least three to four nodes—these are the raised, ring-like bumps on our cane where latent growth points, or "eyes," reside.
We cannot simply be placed in soil. As epiphytes, we require a loose, well-aerated, and moisture-retentive medium that mimics our natural attachment to tree branches. A mix of moist sphagnum moss and fine orchid bark chips is ideal. Before being placed in the medium, the cut ends of our cane should be dusted with a rooting hormone powder containing a fungicide. This stimulates the nodes and protects us from rot. Lay the cane horizontally on top of the medium, or position it upright, ensuring at least one node is in contact with the damp moss. Do not bury us deeply, as this will suffocate us and promote decay. The key is high humidity and consistent, gentle warmth.
This is not a quick process. From our perspective, we are utilizing every bit of stored moisture and carbohydrate within our pseudobulb to initiate new life. We must be kept in a warm, brightly lit location with indirect light. The propagation tray or pot should be covered with a clear plastic bag or dome to maintain a humid microclimate around us, but this must be vented occasionally to prevent stagnant air. The medium should be kept lightly moist, never soggy. Over many weeks, the energy directed to a node will first trigger the development of roots, and later, a small plantlet (keiki) will emerge. This new growth signifies that the propagation is succeeding.
Once the keiki has developed several roots that are a few inches long, it has become a self-sustaining individual. It is now ready to be carefully severed from the now-depleted original cane cutting. This new plant should be potted into a very small container with a fresh, fine-grade orchid potting mix. The small pot size is crucial, as it allows the tiny root system to establish itself without being overwhelmed by a large volume of wet medium. Continue to provide high humidity and bright, indirect light as the young orchid acclimates to its independent existence.
