This is my first orchid it is a Phalaenopsis, I have had it for about a year. I have something growing on one of my spikes that looks like leaves. I have attached the pictures that I took. I am hoping that someone can give me some information regarding what it is and how I handle taking care of it.
You have a keiki. Phalaenopsis sometimes produce a small plant at a node on the flower stem instead of a flower. When it develops to the point where it has a few roots showing it can be detached and potted up on its own, and you have a bonus plant. If the parent plant appears healthy it is nothing to worry about.
Thanks PaphMadMan....my parent plant apprears to be healthy, so this is a nice suprise. I was expecting a flower and the more that it grew I knew it wasn't a flower. I will continue to watch it for roots and plant when the time is right. Thanks again!
You want to have sufficient root before you cut the keiki off. An absolute minimum of 4 inches total should be observed if possible, and it's best to have a bit more. Also, it should be more than one root, so 2 or 3 with a total length equalling over 4 inches.
I have a NOID that has formed a couple of keikis and the keikis are blooming-or at least, the flower is emerging from the keiki. The roots are still a bit short, evidently, to pot it up so I'll enjoy the experience while I wait.
Beverly A.
When one of my phals produces a keiki , I always use the rule of three . Three roots , three leaves , three inches long . This way it has a good chance when potting it on its' own . Hope this helps.