Stem Propagating Phal In class

[Htsorchid]

We did mix three parts water and one part bleach, to get 1.5% of sodium hypochlorite. It might be strong but you cut off the ends of the stem that it kills before you place stem in test tube. Its been a week and a Day since we started the Experiment, I hope to get pictures today to post.

That would be cool if I got more then one plant per node.

[Htsorchid]

Hello Everyone!

I just wanted to Update everyone on my little class experiment. Out of the four test tube only two remain. One had contamination, the second had pesticides(which I think killed the stem). And the last two are doing well! My class of course has finished but my teacher just lets the tubes go if they are still alive.

I hope you enjoy the pictures! As well what do i do next? How is re-flasking to be accomplished without contaminating the stems with little leaves? Thanks for the help and advice!

[camille1585]

Your experiment was quite a sucess! Those are cute little keikis! Sorry I don't know about reflasking, the only experience I have is with orchid seed, and I've only tried it once! Luckily like you I had access to my university's laminar flow hood and autoclaves to do my sowing. That sure helps cut down on the contamination risks compared to doing it at home.

[greenbean]

Congratulations on your successful experiment! That is SO cool!!!

I'm in a plant propagation class too and will be doing a tissue culture lab in March. I can't wait now! (of course I was excited anyways. lol) I hope that I can take cuttings from the orchids in the greenhouse. Our greenhouse has a bit of a "look but don't touch much" feel to it.

Are you at the UW? I visited there once and saw the conservatory greenhouse. It is more impressive than the 2 here at WSU, but we have endless rows of research greenhouses. Still, I'm jealous of that fantastic conservatory complex and the arboretum.