Keiki paste is a popular tool used by gardeners and plant enthusiasts to promote the growth of keikis, which are baby orchid plants that grow from the nodes of the parent plant. It contains a cytokinin hormone, which is responsible for stimulating cell division and growth in plants. The specific cytokinin hormone used in keiki paste can vary depending on the brand and formulation, but commonly used cytokinins include kinetin, benzyladenine, or their derivatives.
Cytokinins are a class of plant hormones that play a crucial role in regulating various aspects of plant growth and development. They are involved in cell division, shoot initiation, root growth, nutrient mobilization, and flowering. In the case of keiki paste, the cytokinin hormone acts as a growth stimulant specifically for the nodes of orchid plants, encouraging the formation of keikis.
Unlike other pastes or powders used for root growth, which often contain auxin hormones, keiki paste focuses on promoting shoot growth rather than root development. Auxins are another class of plant hormones that primarily regulate root growth and elongation. While auxins are important for promoting root formation in cuttings or promoting root growth in newly transplanted plants, they are not typically used in keiki paste formulations.
It is important to note that while keiki paste can be effective in stimulating keiki growth in orchids, its success may vary depending on factors such as the species of orchid, its health, and environmental conditions. Additionally, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and dosage to avoid any potential harm to the plant.
In my personal experience, I have used keiki paste on several orchids in my collection. I found that it can be a helpful tool for encouraging keiki formation, especially on orchids that have previously struggled to produce offshoots. However, it is essential to apply the paste sparingly and precisely to the nodes, as excessive application can lead to tissue damage or interfere with the plant’s natural growth patterns.
Keiki paste is made up of a cytokinin hormone that stimulates growth in the nodes of orchid plants. While it differs from root growth products that contain auxins, it serves a specific purpose in promoting the formation of keikis. By understanding the specific hormone and its role in plant growth, gardeners can utilize keiki paste effectively to propagate and expand their orchid collection.
