Do you want your orchid to bloom like never before? The key to success is proper repotting! Discover step by step how to repot your orchid without damaging its delicate roots and ensure healthy growth. Learn which pots are best and when is the ideal time for this important task. Your orchids will thank you!
Choosing the right pot for orchids
Phalaenopsis orchids, commonly known as Phalaenopsis, need special pots. The containers must have features that allow us to easily monitor the quality and health of the roots and water the orchids properly.
Types of pots you can choose for orchids:
- Plastic Pots: These are preferred for their drainage properties and ability to maintain a higher substrate temperature. It’s worth noting that clay pots are less recommended because their porous walls evaporate water quickly and can irritate the roots.
- Transparent Pots: These are ideal for Phalaenopsis orchids because they allow you to monitor the roots closely. It's important to avoid algae growth on the walls, which can deprive the plants of nutrients.
- Baskets: Wooden baskets are aesthetically pleasing and allow for root observation, but they can be problematic due to dripping water.
When is the best time to repot orchids?
Before deciding to repot your orchid, assess the condition of its roots. If many roots are growing out of the pot and several look dried out, it's the right time to repot.
- If possible, wait until spring (as this is the ideal time for repotting), but if your orchid looks weak, it’s better to risk repotting it than to wait too long.
- Repotting an orchid should be done approximately every 2.5 years. This helps the plants grow healthily and bloom beautifully.
- Just follow one rule – do not repot a blooming orchid!
Repotting Orchids Step by Step
Step 1: Remove the Orchid from the Pot If the orchid hasn’t been repotted in a long time, it may have adhered strongly to the pot walls. Gently separate the roots from the container. If necessary, don't be afraid to cut them – the most important thing is that the orchid "comes out" of the container safely and freely.
Step 2: Remove the Old Substrate Carefully remove the old substrate from between the plant's roots. While doing this, check the orchid’s condition: cut out dried, rotting, or diseased parts!
Step 4: Place the Orchid’s Roots in a New Pot and Add New Substrate Pour the substrate into the pot with loosely arranged roots. Try to fill the pot evenly. You can lightly shake the container and use a thin stick to help. Remember that orchid substrates already contain an initial dose of fertilizer, so you don't need to feed your Phalaenopsis after repotting.
Step 5: Choose a Location and Clean the Plant Place the newly potted Phalaenopsis in a well-lit, warm room – preferably in the same spot it was before. Finally, clean it of dust and substrate particles that may have been left after repotting, and spray the leaves to provide adequate humidity for a "fresh start."