When to repot orchids – expert guide Orchids should be repotted every one to three years – but only when they need it. ‘The majority of orchids have been bred to grow in one particular size pot, so the only time you would want to repot your orchid is if the plant has become pot bound,’ explains Paige Harmon at Westerlay Orchids.
So, when should an orchid be repotted?
Every 1-2 years, when the potting media has started to break down
In spring/summer
In case of overgrown roots
In case of pest infestation
In case of root problems
After blooming.
A frequent query we ran across in our research was “Can You repot an orchid when in Bloom?”.
You see, while there is nothing stopping you from repotting your orchid while it is in bloom, it is not recommended to do so. It is best to wait until your orchid has finished blooming to repot it. Many issues come with repotting while your plant is in bloom. Orchids can experience bud blast or early bloom dropping if repotted while in bloom. Bud blast will occur because your orchid will switch its focus to root growth and adjusting to the new environment.
How do you transplant orchid?
Transplant the orchid into a new pot and dust thoroughly with substrate. At the bottom of the pot, there must be a drainage layer 3-5 cm thick. The flower must be placed exactly in the center of the pot: the orchid has only one growth point. Important: treat the plant very carefully, as its roots are quite fragile. Orchid care after transplant.
A frequent query we ran across in our research was “How to repot an orchid step by step guide?”.
Step by step. 1 Remove your orchid from its pot, untangle the roots and remove all the compost. Shorten roots to 15cm and cut off dead or diseased pieces. Leave aerial roots (growing outside the pot) intact. 2 If the roots fit back into the old pot, then reuse that, as sizing up can leave seeds sitting. In wet compost for too long.
What is the proper soil for orchids?
Sphagnum moss is a wonderful choice as the main source of the potting mix. Orchid bark is a mix of different types of bark that often includes sphagnum mossAdding some chunks of lava rock will help the roots to ‘breath’ and provides additional stability for the potting mix. Clay pebbles can be used in the mixture, to help with drainage and aeration, and more items.
Is your orchid over watered or over potted?
In an attempt to prevent overwatering, some suggest limiting the amount of water given, and even using ice cubes for watering as a trick to limit the amount of water. If an orchid is remaining wet in its pot for an extended time it is just as likely that the orchid is over potted than it is over watered.