Removing keikis

[LavendarSunset]

I have a dendrobium that has formed two keikis on one cane. They are on opposite sides, about 2 inches apart, and one is blooming! Both are full of nice, healthy roots that are growing fast and have just about reached a good length to remove them from the mother plant.

I know people have different ways of removing keikis (some twist it off, others cut); is there one method that works better than another? This is my first experience with keiki removal, and I want to make sure I do it right without doing damage to either the baby plants or their mom in the process. Also, should I wait until the one is done blooming before I remove it??

Thanks for the help!

Gail

[WhiteRabbit]

I'd wait for after blooming. I always just twist them off. I don't know if one way is better than another, but can't accidentally cut something you didn't mean to when twisting, tho I suppose you may accidentally break some roots...

[LavendarSunset]

When you twist them off, do you just turn it clockwise (or counter clockwise) where the base of the keiki attaches to the mother plant until it breaks loose? Do they break off easily (hopefully)??

[WhiteRabbit]

The few I have removed all twisted off easily. That's been a Phal and some Dens. Yes, I just grasp the keiki at the base and gently twist. I twist whichever direction looks easiest. Usually it only takes about half a turn.

[LavendarSunset]

Hopefully it will work that way for me, too. Keep your fingers crossed

[WhiteRabbit]

Originally Posted by LavendarSunset

Hopefully it will work that way for me, too. Keep your fingers crossed

[RosieC]

I twist on Den keiki's as well (which is the only type I've had). They've always seemed to twist quite easily. Like Sonya I would wait until it's finished flowering.

[LavendarSunset]

YAY FOR ME!! I am pleased to report that keiki #1was safely removed this morning and is now happily potted in his own space! I was a bit apprehensive since I hadn't done it before, but it went very well and none of the roots were damaged in the process. What a feeling of accomplishment!!

Thank you Sonya and Rosie for helping me through it

[Bud]

I am glad you had success in twisting your keiki. It seems daunting at first but it needs to be done or they will wither and die when the roots get big and cant get enough nutrients from the mother cane anymore.

[LavendarSunset]

You are so right, but like anything else, the first time you try something new is always the most daunting! And who else could I have shared the excitement of my success with other than here on Orchid Board? Woo hoo!!! LOL