Question
My Moth Orchid has developed new leaves and roots at the top of the mother plant. How do I separate it? Jean

Answer
Hi Jean,

I am not sure just what you are describing here. New leaves normally emerge from the center of the existing leaves and new roots emerge from just underneath the leaves and grow over the surface of the potting mix and pot. If that is what you have, then it is happy and should be left alone.

Occasionally, a new plant will emerge as an offshoot at the base of the mother plant. It will have leaves that are completely separate from the leaves of the mother plant. If that is what you have, then you can either leave it as is because they do not compete with each other and both will thrive. If you want to separate the baby plant, then cut it just below the potting mix surface where the baby plant attaches to the mother plant and then plant the baby plant and its root(s) in a small pot filled with Orchid potting mix.

I have written an article on Orchid care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com