Keiki

[elitebettas]

My huge and healthy vanda, after blooming with two spikes has now put out a small new plant at the base. I was under the impression that they do this when stressed? Or is this normal. It is growing new leaves from its apex as well as the little keiki. should i be worried?

[charleyismydog]

I could be wrong and am no expert on vandas but sounds like a good thing to me!

[kmarch]

You've nothing to worry about. If the first instance what you've got isn't a keiki, it's simply a new growth. As it's not a keiki, it's not a sign of stress, rather the opposite. Your Vanda is happy and giving you new growth. New growth means more flowers in the future!

As Vandaceous orchids have what we call a monopodial growth habit we typically (and incorrectly) think that they'll only ever get the one stalk or growth but many Vandaceous orchids put out multiple growths. This is true for Vandas, Phals, Ascocentrum, as well as other Vandaceous orchids like Neos.

Rest easy and know your plants aparently likes what you're giving it!

[Cynthia, Prescott, AZ]

Some have a tendency to do this more than others, and so don't worry about it. If a plant really does have a problem, something quite visible, they will also do this because of the upset. But if there is no visible problem, it is probably normal for that plant.

[elitebettas]

Very good, thanks guys!

[slippery_biscuit]

I've a Vacostylis that finished a drawn out leaf losing process. As this was occuring a new growth was starting at the base. Finally most of the leaves had fallen (plant was only about 8" in ht) and I nipped it off. Would have tossed it save for the new growth and now it has continued to sprout new leaves (maybe 8 in a couple of months) and lots of new root activity.

I'm thinking that this may be a result of the original plant not fully liking the environmental change which occured at the time of purchase. Now perhaps the "new" vacostylis will thrive as it has only known my greenhouse, maybe?

jeff