What Size Pot to Plant a Keiki

Keiki is a Hawaiian word that means baby or child. In the orchid world, keiki refers to the small plant that grows off of the parent plant. Once the keiki has grown large enough, it can be removed from the parent plant and planted on its own. One of the most common questions that orchid enthusiasts have when planting a keiki is, what size pot should I use?

Size Matters

When it comes to planting a keiki, the size of the pot is important. If the pot is too big, the keiki may not have enough roots to properly fill the pot. If the pot is too small, the roots of the keiki may become crowded and stunt its growth. To determine the appropriate pot size, you need to consider the size of the keiki and its roots.

The Right Pot Size

In general, it is best to choose a pot that is about one-third the size of the plant. For example, if the keiki is six inches tall, you should choose a pot that is about two inches in diameter. This will give the plant enough room to grow and develop without getting lost in an oversized pot.

Watch the Roots

When selecting the right pot size for your keiki, you also need to consider the size and health of its roots. The root system of the keiki should be healthy and well-developed before you transplant it into a pot. If the roots are small and underdeveloped, you may want to choose a smaller pot to give them time to grow before transplanting them into a larger pot.

Choose the Right Type of Pot

The type of pot you choose can also impact the growth and development of your keiki. While most orchids can be grown in plastic or clay pots, some orchids prefer one type of pot over the other. When it comes to planting a keiki, it is generally best to choose a plastic pot. Plastic pots are lightweight and easy to clean, which makes it easy to monitor the health of the plant and its roots.

Conclusion

Planting a keiki is an exciting and rewarding experience for orchid enthusiasts. When selecting the right pot size, you need to consider the size of the keiki, the size and health of its roots, and the type of pot you want to use. By following these simple guidelines, you can help ensure that your keiki grows into a healthy and beautiful orchid that will bring you joy for years to come.