Can You Root Orchids?

Types

• There are two types of orchids: orchids with pseudobulbs and orchids without pseudobulbs. Pseudobulbs are large, bulbous pods at the plant’s base. In orchids with multiple pseudobulbs, break the orchids at the pseudobulbs and replanted them. In plants without pseudobulbs, the remove and plant new rooting separately.

Method

• To root pseudobulb orchids, gently break up the plant and separate the pseudobulbs. Place the pseudobulbs in an orchid potting medium in a pot with plenty of drainage holes. Loosely cover the pseudobulbs with the potting medium about half way up the bulb. With nonpseudobulb orchids, plant new growth with new roots attached in orchid medium like any other plant.

Timeframe

• Orchids take weeks to months to properly root and establish itself. As long as the plant looks healthy and plump above the soil, the transplant is succeeding.

Maintenance

• Lightly water the new plant each week to moisten the soil, but the orchid needs to root and establish itself before receiving heavier watering. During this time, ensure the orchid is not subjected to extreme temperatures, excessive sunlight or the outdoors, as it is too delicate to withstand these fluctuations.