Need help regarding how to separate the new baby plant.

[xzhlu302]

Hi, I had this orchid plant from a yr ago. Recently it grew a baby sprout. Is it possible to separate it from the mother plant? How can I do it? Thank you.

[Roberta]

Not necessary - it is a basal keiki, a new growth. And certainly not yet. Once the new growth has substantial roots of its own it can be separated. But why? You'll get a better "show" with a multi-growth plant that is likely to produce multiple spikes, than with two weak plants that may barely survive.

[fishmom]

Take Roberta's advice. Your plant is much better off following its own inclinations. It looks nice and healthy, so you are providing good culture. Keep it up.

[xzhlu302]

Thank you, Roberta and fishmom. I will keep it.

[Ray]

It's difficult to say from the photo, but it looks like the "mother" plant experienced damage to the growth center ("the crown"), making the new growth its only way of carrying on.

If I am correct, that old plant is serving as a resource for the new growth and may - eventually - die, but certainly do not separate them.

[xzhlu302]

Thank you, Ray.