Keiki cloning paste FAQs tips & tricks
We sell Crazy Keiki Cloning Paste, but although different brands do have different formulas, this information may also apply to cloning pastes in general...
How to do you say keiki?
Keiki is pronounced 'KAY-kee'. Keiki means baby or child in Hawaiian (it literally means 'the little one'). In horticulture a keiki is a plant produced asexually by an orchid.
What's in keiki paste?
Keiki paste is a cytokinin hormone. It induces growth in the node of the plant. Cytokinin is not the same as what's in pastes or powders made for root growth, they contain a hormone called auxins. Cytokinin encourages cell division. In addition, a carrier like lanolin is usually used to 'stick' the plant hormone on to the node, and for easy application onto the plant. Some cloning pastes include both cytokinins and auxins. Auxins help root and body development in plants.
When used on an orchid flower spike, it will either form vegetative growth - called a keiki (a baby orchid that's a clone of the mother plant) - or floral growth (a new branch with flower buds). The paste can't control whether you get a keiki or a new stem.
What's in Crazy Keiki Cloning Paste?
There are variations between brands - and to protect their intellectual property they don't disclose everything - but for Crazy Keiki Cloning Paste it includes a special blend of natural plant growth hormones and vitamins that help stimulate the mother plant to reproduce, while fertilizing the baby orchid or new growth, and protecting plant from fungus and viruses.
What should you apply cloning paste with?
We recommend applying any cloning paste with something relatively sterile like a clean cotton bud or toothpick, rather than germy fingers. Wearing gloves is a good idea. Wash hands after applying and don't eat it. It's not made for human consumption.
Will the paste wash off?
No, the formula used for Crazy Keiki is in a sticky water-resistant base that creates a seal around the node and won't wash off in the rain or during watering That means it'll work in a greenhouse environment also.
How much do you need to apply?
Very little! Just a small dab in the right place (about the size of a pea) will do the job. Cloning paste tends to be sold in small jars or tubs, between 2mls to 10mls. Even a tiny jar will last for many applications.
How long does keiki paste stay fresh?
Shelf life varies, but for Crazy Keiki Cloning Paste, stored in a sealed jar it will stay fresh and active for 2 years. Best stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. It can still be used after 2 years but may not be as effective.
How long till a new keiki appears?
4 to 8 weeks is normal but it does seem to depend on the natural growth speed of the plant. If a plant's already a fast grower it'll produce new growth even faster with keiki paste applied.
How many nodes should you apply it to?
The official instructions will usually say 2 to 3 nodes, but in our experience if you focus it on one node at a time the plant can focus all its resources on one spot. Another handy tip we've found is to apply it to a top node as it will influence nodes nearby.
More detailed Crazy Keiki Cloning Paste application instructions >