How to effortlessly grow new orchids from a single leaf

Growing orchids may seem difficult and complicated. Many people also struggle with their propagation. However, there is a simple way to enjoy new orchids without the need to visit a garden store. You can grow them yourself.

Usually, orchids bought from florists are propagated by cloning, which is a procedure impossible to perform at home. Therefore, it is worth considering another method—avoid sowing, which is time-consuming, and instead, use faster techniques.

Growing plants from a leaf is popular, especially with succulents, but it also works well for orchids. The most important thing is to precisely cut off a fragment of the plant to ensure the healthy growth of the new orchid. All tools used during this process must be sterile to prevent young plants from being exposed to infections.

To propagate an orchid, you need a scalpel, available in pharmacies and medical stores. You can buy one for about $5 (and a disposable one even for a dollar). Additionally, it is worth having fertilizer and activated charcoal on hand to support root development.

The key step is to detach a leaf from the stem using a scalpel so the fragment contains a trunk piece. The leaf alone will not produce roots without a growth point. The cut-off stem fragment should dry overnight to form a membrane, soaked in root-supporting fertilizer the next morning.

Next, prepare a solution of activated charcoal by dissolving one tablet in half a cup of water. Dip the leaf into it. When new roots appear, transplant the orchid into a pot. Water the newly transplanted plant only after three days to avoid overwatering.