Orchid seedlings growing a flask need to be deflasked as soon as possible upon arrival to prevent leaf and root rotting issues. We have prepared an extensive guide on deflasking orchids to help you avoid common mistakes and successfully deflask orchids.

Steps to Seedling Deflasking:

1. Fill a clean bowl with tepid water and add a fungicide to prevent damping off.
2. Open the flask carefully.
3. Put the seedlings into the water.
4. Gently manipulate seedlings apart, being careful not to break any leaves or roots while doing so.
5. Remove all of the agar. This is because agar left on the seedlings can lead to fungal and bacterial development.
6. Place individual seedlings on paper towel and allow to air-dry for 10-15 minutes.
7. Wash sphagnum moss 3 to 4 times and disinfect with a disinfectant.
8. Pot all the seedlings in a 50mm tube with 100% sphagnum moss. DO NOT TIGHTLY PACK THE SEEDLINGS!
9. Place seedlings in a clean area and maintain temperature at 20 to 25 degrees Celsius.

General Care Tips for Orchid Seedlings:

1. Ensure seedlings are not in direct sunlight as this could cause burning of the leaves.
2. Ensure that the moss is moist and not dry or supersaturated with water.
3. Monitor regularly for any fungus, if present, use a suitable fungicide.
4. Maintain the temperature between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius.
5. It is very important to fertilise the seedlings for good growth. We recommend using a quarter strength of a balanced fertiliser with micronutrient every 7 to 10 days.
6. Do not touch orchid seedlings with dirty hands. Always sanitise your hands and sterilise your equipment before touching seedlings to avoid contamination.