Germination of orchids using a simple and economical method, reproducible in non-optimal environments

Abstract

The cultivation of orchids is complicated due to the low germination rate of the seeds, as well as the difficulties in the survival and establishment of the plants. It is known that these plants require to be associated with endophytic fungi (they colonize the roots and facilitate the nutrition processes of plants). The foregoing causes people engaged in the trade in orchids as ornamental plants illegally extract wild specimens from preserved forests. This paper proposes a strategy of germination of orchids using economic and accessible elements, which can be carried out in places without laboratory infrastructure. The basic elements are clear glass jars, a cardboard support, water and a drawer adapted to maintain a sterile environment. The strategy is functional in terms of its viability to develop in environments not optimal for this type of work, germinated seeds were obtained but it is necessary to determine the right time and find a way to extract the germinated seeds from the jars and place them in substrates that allow their establishment and development. The number of germinated seeds is low; however, it is considered that it will serve as a basis for non-specialized people to propagate orchids in their localities from the germination stage.