How to propagate Paphiopedilum

Seed propagation

The seeds of Paphiopedilum are very small, and the embryo inside the seeds is not fully developed, so ordinary sowing propagation is relatively difficult.

If we want to propagate Paphiopedilum by sowing, we need very professional technical support. We must first use culture medium in a sterile test tube to culture the embryos of Paphiopedilum seeds. After the Paphiopedilum seeds germinate in the test tube, they need to be divided and transplanted 2-3 times. When the Paphiopedilum seedlings grow to about 3 cm high in the test tube, the test tube can be removed for cultivation. It takes 4-5 years for Paphiopedilum to bloom when propagated by sowing.

Propagation by division

Propagating Paphiopedilum by division is a common method and is more suitable for home cultivation.

Propagation by division requires a Paphiopedilum with more than 5-6 leaf clusters. Potted Paphiopedilum can be divided approximately once every 2-3 years. Paphiopedilum will have a short dormant period after flowering, and we should use this short dormant period to divide the plant.

First, pour the Paphiopedilum as the mother plant out of the pot and carefully remove the soil attached to the roots, being careful not to damage the tender and new shoots of the Paphiopedilum. Then separate the plants, each with 2-3 buds. The thick and large new buds can be separated into a separate plant, and the small tender buds and old buds can be separated into one plant. In this way, the divided plants can be planted in flower pots. The soil should be fertile, such as leaf mold. After planting, place the flower pots in a relatively dark place, so that the roots of the divided plants can recover more easily.