Keiki is a terminal figure used to describe a specific eccentric of growth that occurs on sure orchids . It is derive from the Hawaiian word for “ babe ” or “ kid , ” which is fitting because keikis are essentially infant orchidaceous plant plants that forge on the mother works .
Keikis are most commonly found on Phalaenopsis , Epidendrum , and Dendrobium orchids , although they can occur on other orchid varieties as well . These keikis are transmissible clone of their mother plant life , imply they have the same genetic composition as the parent plant . This is why keikis will finally produce flowers that wait very similar to those of the mother plant .
The formation of keikis can occur for a kind of reasons . One common cause is stress on the female parent plant life , such as changes in light , temperature , or humidness . This stress can trigger the plant to produce keikis as a survival mechanism , earmark it to propagate itself and guarantee its transmissible lineage continues .
I have in person witnessed the geological formation of keikis on my own Phalaenopsis orchidaceous plant . I had a plant that was not doing well in its original localization , with leaves call on yellow and the overall health of the industrial plant reject . I decided to move it to a different spot with practiced light weather condition and increased humidness . To my surprise , a few months later , I noticed bantam plantlet forming on the stem turn of the orchidaceous plant . These were keikis , and they eventually grew into healthy , flowering plants that resembled the original plant .
Keikis are enthralling because they declare oneself a way for orchid enthusiasts to propagate their favorite plants without relying on more traditional method such as seminal fluid germination . By carefully removing the keiki from the mother plant and allow it with the correct conditions , it can be produce into a new item-by-item orchid . This is especially beneficial for orchid collector who desire to expand their collection or portion out their preferent varieties with others .
Caring for keikis is similar to caring for mature orchid plants . They require the same introductory indigence of right light , temperature , humidness , and watering . However , because keikis are humble and more delicate , they may require extra attention and attention . It is crucial to secure that the keiki has adept air circulation around its etymon and that it is not overwatered , as this can lead to root rot .
One method of promote keiki growth is to put up the mother plant with slenderly rarefied humidity grade . This can be achieved by placing a humidness tray or a humidifier near the plant life . to boot , offer the orchid with balanced fertilizer can help upgrade overall health and encourage the formation of keikis .
Keikis are a fascinating and unequalled phenomenon found in sure orchidaceous plant metal money . They are genetically very to their mother plant and will eventually produce flowers that resemble the parent . Keikis tender orchidaceous plant enthusiasts an exciting chance to propagate their favorite plants and expand their collection . With right guardianship and attention , keikis can flourish and become beautiful , flowering orchid in their own right .
Caroline Bates
