Procedure for Phaius Tankervillae from Cuttings

[Uechi]

It is my understanding that new Phaius Tankervillae/Nun's Orchids can be created by taking the flower spike after the flowers have all dropped off and making cuttings. If anyone has done this or has a detailed procedure for doing so I would appreciate inputs. It appears to be an excellent way to get new plants, especially when purchasing them the price is anywhere from $25 and up. Thanks for the help in advance. Regards

[Dantheman]

it is relatively easy

cut the stem after the flowers have droppe
remove the small leaves that exist up the stem
cut the top off down to the lowest flower
cut the stem into sections containing at least one node each.
place flat on a tray of spagnum and cover with plastic
at around two weeks too a month you will start too see growth
wait till growth has formed bulb then pot up individually.

[Uechi]

Thanks for the response. Is the Spagnum moss moistened. ie. damp, wet, soaking wet? What kind of light are cuttings given? What temperature is optimum? Do you use any hormone like Rootone?

[Don Perusse]

Thanks Dantheman.....it will be a great project for our newly formed Orchid Club. Always looking for programs for all the newbies in our little club. Keep their interest peaked and maybe new members to boot!

[Tropic]

When cutting the flower stalks of the Phaius, use a clean sterile sharp razor blade and cut at a slight angle not straight across. If you use a garden share or scissors, it tends to crush the stalk and so creates the ideal media for fungus and bacteria infection. In some cases I actually dip the freshly cut end in liquid beeswax to seal it. This appears to help with my two node cuttings. It is also best to lay the cuttings on live damp spagnum moss bed in a flat container, cover with Gladwrap and leave in a shaded area - under a bench - within the comfort of the greenhouse. Then wait with patience for them to sprout. Now I wonder if the hybrids of Phaius Calanthe will have these same characteristics.