TheNaturePlanet

Many people are eager to grow phalaenopsis with their own hands and witness the process from seeds to seedlings and then to the blooming of numerous flowers. So, how can phalaenopsis seedlings be grown from seeds? And what is the simplest way to grow phalaenopsis?
The seeds of phalaenopsis are extremely tiny, and it is very difficult for them to germinate under natural conditions. This is because the seeds do not have an endosperm and lack the nutrients required for germination. Therefore, the aseptic sowing method is generally used to cultivate seedlings.
Material Preparation: Select a mature and unopened phalaenopsis capsule. Prepare 75% alcohol, sodium hypochlorite solution, sterile water, a culture medium (usually MS medium with appropriate hormones and nutrients added), culture bottles, tweezers, a scalpel, etc.
Disinfection Treatment: Wipe the surface of the phalaenopsis capsule with 75% alcohol for preliminary disinfection. Then soak it in the sodium hypochlorite solution for 15 to 20 minutes for in-depth disinfection. After that, rinse it with sterile water 5 to 6 times to completely remove the residual disinfectant.
Sowing Operation: In an aseptic environment, such as a super clean bench, cut open the disinfected capsule with a scalpel, and use tweezers to take out the seeds and evenly sprinkle them on the culture medium.
Cultivation Management: Place the culture bottle after sowing in an incubator with a temperature of about 25°C, a light intensity of 1000 to 3000 lux, and a daily light duration of 12 to 16 hours. After a period of time, the seeds will gradually germinate and form protocorms. As the protocorms develop further, seedlings with roots and leaves will be formed. When the seedlings grow to a certain size, with 2 to 3 leaves and several roots, they can be transplanted.
For ordinary enthusiasts, it is simpler and more feasible to grow phalaenopsis starting from seedlings.
Seedling Selection: Go to a regular flower market or online store and select healthy phalaenopsis seedlings with green leaves, well-developed roots, and no diseases or pests.
Planting Substrate: Phalaenopsis is an epiphytic orchid, and its roots require good air permeability. It cannot be planted with ordinary soil. Sphagnum moss, pieces of bark, coconut coir, etc. are all ideal planting substrates. You can also purchase special planting materials for phalaenopsis.
Planting Container: Select a transparent plastic flower pot with drainage holes, which is convenient for observing the growth of the roots.
Planting Steps: Lay a layer of larger-particle planting material at the bottom of the flower pot to facilitate drainage. Place the phalaenopsis seedling in the center of the flower pot. Hold the seedling with one hand and slowly fill in the planting material with the other hand, gently compacting it to fix the roots of the seedling with the planting material. Be careful not to bury the leaves and the growth points.
Daily Maintenance:
Light: Phalaenopsis likes scattered light and should avoid direct strong light. It can be placed in a bright place indoors where the sun does not shine directly, such as near the windowsill of the living room.
Temperature: The suitable growth temperature for phalaenopsis is 18 to 28°C. Pay attention to preventing heat and cooling down in summer, and keep warm and prevent cold in winter.
Watering: Follow the principle of "seeing dry and seeing wet". Insert your finger 2 to 3 centimeters into the planting material and water when it feels dry. Water thoroughly and avoid waterlogging, which may lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Apply a thin liquid fertilizer once every 1 to 2 weeks during the growing season, and reduce or stop fertilization in winter.
Although it is somewhat difficult to grow phalaenopsis seedlings from seeds, it is full of challenges and fun; while growing from seedlings is relatively simple and more suitable for the general public. No matter which method is chosen, as long as the correct method is mastered and careful care is given, you can enjoy the beautiful blooming of phalaenopsis.