【Orchid Glossary】 Cultivation Terms

This time, we'll introduce some cultivation terminology.

As you begin to take an interest in orchids, you'll come across words you don't know. Knowing the terminology will be helpful when researching cultivation methods or consulting with staff at gardening stores, so please read on.

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× self

Seedling propagation using the pollen from the same individual. This method of seedling propagation allows for offspring that inherit the characteristics of the parent plant to be produced. This method is often used to increase the number of mutant individuals with limited populations.

× sibling (sib.)

Intraspecific seedling propagation: A method of seedling propagation using pollen from another individual in order to produce individuals that outgrow the parent plant.

1-year-of-cultivation prior to BS

The size of the plants that will flower after one more year of cultivation. Similarly, the 2-year-of-cultivation prior to BS will be two years, and the 3-year-of-cultivation prior to BS will be three years.

tetraploid

An individual with four sets of chromosomes instead of the usual two. Also known as "4n," this plant has larger-than-normal flowers and plants.

BS

Blooming Size. This refers to the size of a plant that has grown to a size where it can bloom, not just a plant that has flowers.

NBS

Near Blooming Size. The size of a plant that is close to reaching BS.

mericlone (MC)

Plants propagated by meristem culture. They generally produce the same flowers as the parent plant.

original (OG or Div.)

A plant propagated by division. It is sometimes called a "Div." (short for "division"), meaning a plant divided from the parent. It has the exact same characteristics as the parent, so it is highly valued as an authentic plant.

Seedling

Literally, it is a seedling born from a seed. It is a seedling born from the seeds that are planted and grown in the pods that mature.

compost

Planting materials such as sphagnum moss and bark.

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[Notes]

Source: JOGA (Japan Orchid Growers Association) Review No. 31, p. 31, Published October 18, 2024