Phalaenopsis Keikis: How to Remove & Pot Baby Orchids

Managing Keikis (Baby Plants) on Flower Spikes

A keiki is a baby phalaenopsis growing on a flower spike. They form due to excessive nitrogen fertilizer or insufficient light. Once a keiki has 2–3 roots (2–3" long) and 2–3 leaves, it can be removed.

Removing & Potting a Keiki

1. Cut the spike 1" above and below the keiki attachment point.
2. Pot in a small clear pot with damp fine bark or sphagnum.
3. Keep warm, humid, shaded for 2–3 weeks.
4. Mist daily; begin weak fertilizer after roots establish.

Black Root Tips on Keikis

Common when roots extend beyond the humid microclimate of the mother plant. Trim blackened tips; pot the healthy portion.

Mother Plant Care

• Repot mother in fresh bark mix—anchors better than styrofoam peanuts.
• Switch to balanced or high-phosphorus fertilizer to encourage blooms, not keikis.
• Increase light (east window ideal) to promote flowering.