aLittleSilhouetto / Getty Images
The internet is full of weird and wonderful houseplant hacks.
One currently doing the rounds suggests propagating orchid leaves in rice.
They offered insight into what proven practices they suggest trying for tricky-to-propagate orchids instead.
aLittleSilhouetto / Getty Images
Meet the Expert
Why Is Propagating Orchid Leaves In Rice Not a Good Idea?
Propagating orchidsfrom leaveseven when it’s not in riceis extremely rare.
Want more gardening tips?
What Are the Best Orchid Propagation Methods?
However, the propagation method you should select depends on thetype of orchidyou are working with.
Below are three of the most common orchid propagation methods hobbyists can try.
Phalaenopsis have what is called a monopodial growth, which means it grows upwards, Dr. Millner says.
If you attempt to divide Phalaenopsis, you would break the plant in half.
These baby plants, known asorchid keikis, can be removed to grow separately.
However, Dr. Millner cautions that its a matter of luck as to whether keikis will form.
Backbulbs
Some orchids, such asCattleyaand Cymbidiums, have pseudobulbs.
These succulent stems grow off theplant rhizomesand store water and nutrients.
