Orchids are delicate flowers that are known for their beauty, as well as their temperamental nature. Orchids require a bit more care and understanding that most other houseplants, which can be frustrating or confusing to those not well versed in orchid proper care. However, with the right understanding, cultivating beautiful and healthy orchids can be quite simple and rewarding. While all aspects of orchid care are important, learning to properly re-pot an orchid is one of the most important aspects of this plant’s care.
How To Re-Pot An Orchid In Six Steps:
1. The first step in re-potting an orchid is properly identifying when an orchid actually needs to be moved to another pot. Orchids naturally grow in close proximity to trees and other greenery, and their roots tend to attach themselves this greenery as a means to anchor itself. And orchid needs to be replanted in a new and bigger pot when it’s roots have overgrown their original pot. This is when the roots are either beginning to grow over the sides of the pot or growing out of whatever cracks they can find. In addition, when an orchid’s roots have grown so much that water is being held in the soil and not able to drain from the pot, it is time to move the orchid to a larger pot. If the soil surrounding the roots is constantly moist, the roots will begin to rot, which will cause the plant to die.
2. If possible, an orchid should be moved to a new pot when it begins to show signs of new growth. This will help the orchid maintain it’s growth and adjust to a new pot more easily. However, if the orchid has just bloomed or is about to bloom, it should not be moved. The only time that an orchid that has recently bloomed should be moved, is if the roots have begun to rot and the overall health of the orchid plant is suffering.
3. To remove the orchid from it’s pot, carefully turn the pot upside down and squeeze, tap, and maneuver the soil until the orchid, and it’s surrounding soil has been removed. If the orchid’s roots are stuck to the sides of the pot, use a sharp knife to carefully cut them free. However, keep in mind that the knife should only be used to cut the roots free from the pot, not to cut the roots that are stuck to the pot completely off.
4. Remove as much soil from the roots are possible. If some soil remains, simply leave the soil where it is. The roots of the orchid should not be damaged when freeing them of soil.
5. Remove any dead and/or diseased roots from the orchid. When removing these roots, be sure to use a sharp pair of scissors or a sharp knife in order to make a very clean cut. When spotting diseased roots, look for those that either appear dead and dry or that are excessively soggy.
6. Before placing the orchid in it’s new pot, place stones or another similar material at the bottom of the pot. This will give the orchid’s roots something to anchor themselves to as they continue to grow. Then place a layer of soil that is specially formulated for orchids on top of these rocks. Once this is complete, place the orchid, along with a sufficient amount of soil in the new pot. The soil around the orchid should be pressed down so that the orchid is held in place, and the roots should be covered entirely with the soil.
Youtube Video On The Topic Of Orchid Re-potting
There are many great resources that gardeners can utilize to help them improve their green thumb. One great resource is this Youtube video below. This video explains how to re-pot an orchid, while showing gardeners exactly how to complete this project. This step-by-step tutorial is a great resource for those that enjoy learning in a more visual manner and can teach viewers how to re-pot an orchid in five short minutes.
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