ORCHID SCIENCE PROJECT

[ryrycochinco]

I have a question. Would five months be long enough to germinate orchid seeds?

Also, does anyone know of a source for simple instructions to do this?

[cbuchman]

I believe that seed germination is typically done under very aseptically under very controlled environmental parameters. It might require some expensive equipment. You could however, use a flask of germinated plant-lets, which are generally available. I think you can find orchid flasks for sale via Google or even via this Board.

[ryrycochinco]

Thanks!

[ryrycochinco]

come on! I need ideas!

[Bill U.]

Something that you could do is an experiment based upon lighting.

If you took a group of orchids (whatever they may be, but for true 'experiment consistency' they should all be the same species/hybrid, etc) and you could test to see if certain light ranges are more beneficial or how much of a certain light range they receive to help growth of the plant.

For example, let's say that you have 3 phals (same species or hybrid). The first phal is going to be the control and be only grown under a "standard" light (whatever you choose) for 12-14 hours. The second phal is going to be the first increment that will have the standard light, in addition to 1 red-spectrum centered light bulb. The third phal is going to be the second increment and have the standard light and 2 bulbs of the red-spectrum light.

Another possibility is to use the same setup that I described above but in the following manner:
1st phal- standard light
2nd phal- standard light + 1 red-spectrum light
3rd phal- standard light + 1 blue-spectrum light
4th phal- standard light + 1 red-spectrum + 1 blue-spectrum

*Of course the amount of water (or watering time), temperature, potting medium, etc. should all be the same.
**For experimental accuracy, you could place the phals in a cardboard blind-surrounding 3/4 of the plant to help block out other sources but still allowing 1 side to be open for air flow. A way to get around the blind would be to grow in a dark room, like a basement, etc.