Introduction: Microcoelia megalorrhiza (Rchb.f.) Summerh.
Microcoelia megalorrhiza (Rchb.f.) Summerh. is a species of orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. The orchid is widely-distributed across the eastern coast of Africa, from Somalia to South Africa, where it grows in tropical and subtropical forests, savannahs, and rocky areas at an elevation of approximately 500 to 1,500 meters.
Common Names:
The orchid has several common names depending on the location, including Large-rooted Microcoelia, Megalorrhiza Microcoelia, and Rolled-leaf Orchid.
Appearance:
The plant is relatively small, with a cylindrical stem that is about 2-3 cm long and forms a tuft of elongated, light green to yellow-green leaves that are spirally arranged along the stem, usually measuring between 8-30 cm in length. The leaves are rolled to form a cylindrical shape, with the tops of the leaves forming a hood-like structure. The orchid produces several tiny, pale yellow or creamy white flowers that are not showy and are close to the stem.
Uses:
Microcoelia megalorrhiza (Rchb.f.) Summerh. has a few uses in traditional medicine such as in treating various ailments such as stomach pains, infections, and snakebites. The plant's roots and tubers are boiled and consumed as a natural remedy. The plant is also used in the production of perfume and other fragrances.
Overall, Microcoelia megalorrhiza (Rchb.f.) Summerh. is an interesting and useful species of orchid that has captured the attention of researchers and traditional healers alike.
Light Conditions
Microcoelia megalorrhiza can grow in a range of light conditions. It can thrive in both shaded areas as well as partially sunlit environments. However, direct and intense sunlight can have an adverse effect on their growth and development. Therefore, it is best to provide them with a filtered, diffused light source for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
Microcoelia megalorrhiza is a tropical orchid that requires warm temperatures to grow effectively. The ideal temperature range for their growth is between 20°C to 35°C. They can, however, tolerate higher and lower temperatures, but prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can have a detrimental effect on their growth.
Soil Requirements
Microcoelia megalorrhiza is an epiphytic orchid that grows on trees and rocks. As such, they do not require soil to grow. Instead, they obtain their nutrients from the surrounding air and organic debris that accumulates around their roots. Therefore, they must be grown in a free-draining substrate such as sphagnum moss, bark, or a mixture of the two. The substrate must also retain some moisture to ensure the roots remain hydrated.
Cultivation of Microcoelia megalorrhiza
Microcoelia megalorrhiza is a terrestrial orchid species that originates from Africa and grows in the tropical regions of the continent. It requires warm temperatures and high humidity levels to thrive, making it an ideal plant for cultivation in a greenhouse or indoor environment.
The plant grows well in well-draining soil, such as a mixture of peat moss, coconut coir, and perlite. It also prefers medium to bright indirect light, making it an ideal plant for a north-facing window.
Watering Needs of Microcoelia megalorrhiza
Proper watering is essential for the healthy growth of Microcoelia megalorrhiza. The plant needs to be kept moist but not overly wet. Watering twice a week is sufficient, but the frequency should be adjusted based on the humidity and temperature of the environment.
It's important to avoid getting water on the leaves or crown to prevent rotting. Watering should be done at the base of the plant, allowing the soil to absorb water slowly.
Fertilization of Microcoelia megalorrhiza
Fertilizing Microcoelia megalorrhiza is essential to ensure healthy growth and blooming. Fertilizers should be applied weekly in small quantities during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended.
It's crucial to dilute the fertilizer concentration to half of the recommended strength to avoid burning the plant's roots. Fertilization should be stopped during the dormant season, which occurs from autumn to winter.
Pruning Microcoelia megalorrhiza
Pruning Microcoelia megalorrhiza is essential to remove dead or diseased leaves, promote new growth, and control the plant's size and shape. The plant should be pruned after the blooming season ends and before the dormant season begins.
To prune, use clean and sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the stem above the node or joint. This encourages the plant to create new branches and improves its overall appearance.
Propagation methods of Microcoelia megalorrhiza (Rchb.f.) Summerh.
The plant Microcoelia megalorrhiza (Rchb.f.) Summerh., also known as the Large-Rooted Microcoelia, is a terrestrial orchid that is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. It is an evergreen plant that produces small, white flowers with purple markings.
Propagation of Microcoelia megalorrhiza can be done using various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Microcoelia megalorrhiza is through seed propagation. The seeds are small and dust-like. They require a sterile environment and a suitable growing medium to germinate. The mixture of wood chips, coconut fiber, and sphagnum moss helps the seeds germinate. They can take up to a year to develop, but using this process will ensure the plants’ uniformity.
Division Method
Division propagation is suitable as Microcoelia megalorrhiza use a creeping underground rhizome to expand. Division can occur any time of year, but it is preferred to do it just before the potting season. Make sure to use a sterile blade before splitting the rootball into smaller sections. Each section should have at least three pseudobulbs and enough healthy roots. Plant each division in separate pots, at the same depth as it was in the mother pot and put in partial shade.
Meristem Culture
Meristem culture is creating a copy of the parent plant that is free of diseases, pests, and genetic variations. It involves taking a small tissue sample from a new growth of the plant. It is essential to use a sterile blade and adhere to aseptic techniques when taking samples. The collected samples are grown on a nutrient medium in a test tube under sterile conditions. The new plants from the meristem culture can be transferred from the test tubes to another potting medium before shifting them to their final pots.
It is important to maintain a sterile environment during propagation. A peat-moss, sphagnum moss, and bark mix is a suitable growing medium. Depending on the propagation method, the young plants usually take at least a year to mature. Once they do, they can be transplanted to individual pots and provided with the right growth conditions.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases affecting Microcoelia megalorrhiza is fungal infection. This can be caused by various fungi such as Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum, and Pythium aphanidermatum. Prevention is the key to managing fungal infections in plants. It is important to maintain proper hygiene practices by removing infected and dead plant materials regularly. Additionally, avoid overwatering the plants and ensure adequate air circulation around them. Fungicides can also be used to control fungal infections but should only be used as a last resort.
Another disease that can affect Microcoelia megalorrhiza is bacterial wilt, caused by the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum. This disease is characterized by wilting of the plant, yellowing of the leaves, and stunting of growth. There is no cure for bacterial wilt, and infected plants should be removed and destroyed immediately. Prevention involves practicing good soil management, avoiding waterlogging, and using disease-free planting materials.
Pest Management
Microcoelia megalorrhiza can be affected by various pests such as spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. Spider mites feed on the plant sap and cause yellowing and drying of the leaves. The usage of insecticidal soap can help control spider mites. Balancing humidity levels is also important to prevent infestations.
Scale insects and mealybugs secrete honeydew, which attracts ants and other insects. They can be controlled with the application of horticultural oil, neem oil, or insecticidal soap. Mechanical removal of the scale insects can also be helpful.
Regular inspections of the plant can help prevent infestations, and quarantine of new plants before introducing them into the garden is a good practice to avoid introducing pests.
