Spike or Keiki?

[u/lisebenette]

My (badly treated) orchid (it was a rescue) has developed this on an older flower stem. Why is there two „leaves”? Is this what is called a Keiki? We’re entering dark and cold wintermonths, how best to care for it?

[u/Btflmnd_]

Keiki for sure! I've never had one, but I've heard about the "333 Method" is the rule for separating a baby orchid (keiki) from the mother plant. It requires the keiki to have at least 3 leaves, at least 3 roots, and the roots to be at least 3 inches long before planting. This ensures that the keiki has a strong enough root system to live independently. I don't think there's any specific way to take care of the mother plant, just do it as you usually would. Good luck!