Root hormone for Phal?

[Emerald27]

Hey everyone.

I'm wondering if there is a specific kind of root hormone to use for orchids (specifically a phal) or if you can use general root hormone used for other plants/trees. My dad has some he uses on his bonsai trees.

Is there a difference? If so, what brands are best to look for? I've read a few posts about using seaweed or kelp extracts to help stimulate root growth, is this a better option?

Thanks!

[jeremyinsf]

Many of us here use KLN, and/or seaweed.

KelpMax from Orchid Growing Supplies Semi-hydroponics Hydroponics Orchid Books PrimeAgra is from a member on here. You can find quite a bit of info on his site.

There are several other types (brands) of seaweed.

What specifically are you wanting to do? Revive a plant? Just get it to grow more? Transplant?

[Emerald27]

I have 2 phals that suffered from root rot and don't have many healthy roots remaining after being trimmed.

I'm relatively new to orchid growing, received my first Phal as a gift last Valentines day and have bought myself a mini since then, plus rescued one from my dad. The mini and the rescue both had/got root rot and I'd like to try to do something to help them grow some new roots.

I can also tell that I'm going to wind up being an orchid fiend, so knowledge on this subject and products is something I'd like to have for the future.

[quiltergal]

The rooting hormone you buy at the local garden centers is intended to be used on woody plants. It doesn't work well on orchids.

I have used KLN and KelpMax. I got much better results with KelpMax, and it has a longer shelf life than KLN. I used it with the last batch of plants I repotted and the vigorous root growth was really something.

[jeremyinsf]

If you get the quart bottle of KelpMax you will most likely find it lasts you, and was well worth the investment.

Just my guess and opinion of course!

I just bought 2.5 gallons of it... Merry Christmas to me.

[Jayfar]

Another vote for KelpMax.

[silken]

I have used both KLN and seaweed (kelp) and it seems the seaweed gets better results for me. You should be able to find some in any hydroponics store.

[Emerald27]

Thanks everyone! KelpMax it is! Do you just add it to the water?

[Jayfar]

Originally Posted by Emerald27

Thanks everyone! KelpMax it is! Do you just add it to the water?

Yes, every three weeks is best. Store it in the fridge.

The auxins in KelpMax stimulate new roots or branching of existing roots. The new root tips in turn produce cytokinens, which stimulate growth of the plant.

First Rays has an info page:

Superior Kelp Concentrate

[Emerald27]

Is there a different name for KelpMax, or a different brand of a similar product? I've called around the hydroponics stores in my area and nobody seems to carry it. Any suggestions?