Deflasking

[marydaniellesantos]

I have noticed some methods work better than others, and since I am fairly new, does anyone have any opinions on it? I would love to get a more successful rate in deflasking my baby orchids.

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

What kind of orchids are they?

[Royal]

Hi Mary,

Phillip's question is important. Different types can require different care.

In general, thinner leaved species (and hybrids) can be a little tricky, while thicker leaved plants are more forgiving. It may sound funny, but when in doubt - err on the dry side. A few hours of being too wet and they can rot in an instant.

[marydaniellesantos]

I am working on Bulbophyllum and Dendrobium Orchid seed. Any tips would be very useful, or links on how to deflask different types, along with these.

[Royal]

In general, acclimating seedlings should be done gradually. Many growers use empty fish tanks, plastic bins, or some other way to maintain humidity. You can cover these with plastic film and easily adjust how fast or slow they dry out. If you have a greenhouse than less special care is required, maybe just a quiet corner.

A friend here once gave me some good advice that has worked well for me, but it goes against conventional wisdom (and my advice above). He puts new seedlings in bright light and gives regular strength fertilizer from day one. It sounds radical, but the reasoning made sense to me - they're hungry. While I don't follow this routine exactly, this advice has helped with my survival rate.

[marydaniellesantos]

Originally Posted by RoyalOrchids

In general, acclimating seedlings should be done gradually. Many growers use empty fish tanks, plastic bins, or some other way to maintain humidity. You can cover these with plastic film and easily adjust how fast or slow they dry out. If you have a greenhouse than less special care is required, maybe just a quiet corner.

A friend here once gave me some good advice that has worked well for me, but it goes against conventional wisdom (and my advice above). He puts new seedlings in bright light and gives regular strength fertilizer from day one. It sounds radical, but the reasoning made sense to me - they're hungry. While I don't follow this routine exactly, this advice has helped with my survival rate.

I have been using a large empty fish tank, mild light, and a small heating pad, (my house is 65 F) and I have a humidity gage.

The fertilizer tip is very interesting, I may just have to use it on a flask and see.