Initial potting of Reedstem Epi

[bobdave_]

I just recently bought a reedstem Epi. bareroot (Epi. burtonii), and it shipped with a singular extremely long root, and a flower stalk with a couple withered flowers on it.

I was thinking about potting it semi-hydroponic, but I was wondering if it was okay to cut off the flower stalk to promote root and foliage growth, as I think it's fairly spent and I would rather have a good root system than see more flowers. I also don't know how I should go about doing this because Epi are on a terminal stock, and the idea of cutting the flowers off seems awkward.

Basically, is it okay to cut off the stalk, and how do you best promote root growth.

[Dollythehun]

If you cut the flower stem, you'll most likely get keikis. On the other hand, they can be feet long and unsightly. I'd cut it, pot it up, and let it do "it's own thing." These are not tidy plants to begin with. Tough as nails.

[WaterWitchin]

Originally Posted by Dollythehun

If you cut the flower stem, you'll most likely get keikis. On the other hand, they can be feet long and unsightly. I'd cut it, pot it up, and let it do "it's own thing." These are not tidy plants to begin with. Tough as nails.

I got my first reedstem epi from DollytheHun. I repotted into semi-hydro upon receipt. It's taken off, and never looked back. It IS a tough as nails plant. And not being a tidy grower is definitely not an exaggeration.

[bobdave_]

Thanks!

I figured it'd be fine, but I always get nervous with new plants.