How do you do this?  From the last article, I described simple tissue culture procedures that can be done by the hobbyist.  Using those procedures, slightly modified for the small seed of the orchid, you can become an "orchid grower". 

Note that I'm getting pretty good on growing these in sterile conditions but once they leave the "bottle", I'm in trouble.  If you are new to orchid growing, consult the experts and see how they do it.  Do not be afraid to ask for help and join a listserv if needed.  There is a new one now specific to orchid tissue culture - go to my website and click on "Listservs"  ( www.kitchenculturekit.com ) or email me at kck@turbonet.com

Here are the steps involved:

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Get materials needed for culture: Knudson C medium or MS medium, table sugar, PPM, agar, seeds or a seed pod plus items mentioned in my last paper on home tissue culture. 
• See this for a refresher:  http://www.kitchenculturekit.com/sivbposter.htm
• Seeds are available, sometimes, for free for those who are rookies and are just testing the system.  Email me and I can probably find you some free non-valuable seed to play with.
  
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Make your media and set up your clean box.
• Specific media recommendations can be found at:  www.phytotechlab.com
• Type "orchid" in the search window, or contact garys@phytotechlab.com
  
  
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Disinfect your seeds.  There are several methods available including a "new" one I was told about on the new listserv
• homemade filter unit
• coffee filter method
• sucrose and peroxide (new and easiest method!!)
• green pod method
  
  
• WRAP your containers to prevent contamination and at room temperature.  Some species "like" a dark incubation while others will tolerate light.
  
• WAIT.  Seeds can take several weeks to several months to germinate.  Watch for contamination and discard those cultures.
  
  
• Subculture to fresh media.  There is much information on the web about the specifics of this so do some reseach while you are waiting.  It is good to ask the source of your seeds what they recommend.
  
  
• ENJOY.  Be prepared for the plants to take over your house.  When I started this a few years ago, the cultures took up a small space on my plant shelf in the kitchen nook.  They have since taken over my guest room for growing, not to mention other areas of the house where I prepare media, store media, process media, etc. (I'll   discuss more about this in the future). 

gelatin (use 1/2 tsp per 3 tablespoons liquid media; process in microwave; culture at cooler temperatures so the "jello" does not melt.

All companies mentioned above.

Purchase from Aaron Hicks:  ahicks51@cox.net