There is something magical about orchids, don't you think? Their sleek necks and glowing petals are the stuff of old forest scenes, yet they thrive in a low-maintenance home setting. Changing the pot to orchids prevents the roots from becoming too dense, favoring the production of beautiful buds for years and years to come. See step one to determine when an orchid is ready for a pot change and how to move it to a new container without damaging the root.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Getting to know your Orchid
Step 1. Determine if it's time to change the pot
The ideal time to change an orchid's pot is just after the end of flowering, when it begins to produce new growth. However, you don't have to change the pot every time this happens. Rather, you should do this no more often than once every 18-24 months. If you're not sure when the last time you changed the pot was and it seems to grow out of the current pot, it probably means you should have done this for a while. Observe the orchid and look for the following signs to know if it is ready to change the pot:
- There are several roots that grow outside the pot. If you see a lot of roots - not just one or two - dangling beyond the pot, your orchid needs more space, and it's time to move it to a larger one.
- Some of the roots are rotting. If they look soggy and the potting soil no longer drains as it should, you will need to change it.
- The plant is growing over the edge of the pot. If the plant body is hanging a lot over the edge, it needs more space.
Step 2. Do not change the jar unless necessary
Too much zeal in pot replacement can unbalance the growth cycle of your orchids. An orchid should only be replanted if the listed symptoms are evident. If it looks healthy and well contained in its current jar, postpone the change to next year. It is better for an orchid to get a little crowded than to be moved too often.
Step 3. Find out what kind of soil you need
Now that you know it's time to replant your orchid, it's important to realize what kind of soil you need to use. Many orchids used as house plants are epiphytic, rather than terrestrial, which means they don't grow in the soil. These types of orchids will die if you replant them in common potting soil.
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A combination of fir bark, sphagnum, charcoal and coconut shells is appropriate for many orchid genera. Most common orchids grow well in this mixture:
- 4 parts fir bark or coconut shells
- 1 part of medium charcoal
- 1 part of perlite
- If you're not exactly sure what type of orchid you have, prepackaged orchid pot mixes are a safe card for most epiphytic orchids. You can find them in many nurseries and centers for home and garden items.
- If you have a terrestrial orchid, you will need soil that is crumbly and holds water well. It should have a high content of perlite and woody material. Ask at the local nursery for the particular mix suitable for your type of orchid.
Step 4. Decide which pot size to use
When replanting an orchid, you will need a larger pot of just 2.5cm or more. It is wise to provide a little more space, but not too much - otherwise, the orchid will focus its energies on taking root, and you will not see flowers for many months. Look for a plastic, clay, or ceramic pot that fits your orchid size.
- Make sure the new pot has drainage holes. If it doesn't drain properly, the orchids will rot.
- Some orchid species have roots that are capable of photosynthesis. If you have a Phalaenopsis, consider getting a clear plastic or glass jar to let in the light.
- If you have to choose a pot that is a little larger than you need, perhaps it is a good idea to add some earthenware shards to the bottom. It will help to better drain the soil in the center of the pot, which normally tends to stagnate.
Part 2 of 3: Prepare the Required
Step 1. Measure the necessary potting soil into a large bucket or basin
Fill the new orchid pot with the mix, then pour it into a container about twice its size. To prepare the orchid mix, you will need to let it soak in water overnight. This will allow the soil to retain enough moisture to support the orchid.
Step 2. Cover the mix with hot water
Go ahead and fill the bucket or basin to the brim with hot water. Do not use cold water, as the potting material cannot absorb it. Make sure the soil is at room temperature before repotting the orchid.
Step 3. Filter the soil
You can use a sieve that you normally use for food (it is good to wash it carefully afterwards) or a large piece of muslin. Drain all the water so that what is left is just moist soil. Run more warm water through the mix to wash away the dust.
Step 4. Remove the orchid from the old vase
Carefully lift the orchid out of its pot, loosening each root individually. If the roots are attached to the pot, use a sterilized pair of scissors or knife to free them. It is very important to use clean tools, because orchids are often prone to diseases.
You can sterilize your cutting tools with the flame of a lighter or by rubbing them with alcohol on a cloth
Step 5. Remove the old mix and dead roots
Use your fingers and a clean pair of scissors to thoroughly clean up the roots. Separate the dead mix - coal, wood splinters, moss, and so on - and throw it away. Use scissors to cut away dead or rotting roots, taking care not to damage the healthy parts.
- The soft, saggy roots are likely dead, so don't hesitate to remove them.
- Carefully untangle the roots by gently separating them with your fingers.
Step 6. Have the new jar ready
If you are using a vase that you have previously used for orchids, clean and sterilize it with boiling water to get rid of toxins and kill potential disease vectors. If the pot is large and deep, line it with earthenware shards or Styrofoam dowels to aid drainage. If you are using a short vase, this step is not necessary.
Part 3 of 3: Changing the Orchid Vase
Step 1. Place the orchid in the vase
The older growth should go towards the bottom of the pot, while the newer growth should face the sides, where it will have more room to expand. The top of the root mass should be at the same level as it was in the old pot. This means that the new shoots should be above the surface of the pot, with most of the roots below the surface.
Step 2. Press the potting mix into the pot
Pour some around the roots, shake the pot, and tap the side of the pot so that the soil clumps slightly around the roots. If you use your fingers, press gently so that the live roots are not damaged. Make sure there are no large air pockets. If part of the roots are left uncovered, they will not grow properly.
- It is useful to pour only a little of the soil mix at a time. Work around the roots with your fingers, then pour in more mix and continue.
- Keep pressing the mix into the jar until it is level with the rim.
Step 3. Make sure the plant is able to stand upright when done
Use a stake to keep it straight or clip it to the sides of the pot so it doesn't fall out or grow crooked.
Step 4. Continue to care for your orchid as before
Put it in a temperate and partially shaded place. Water it occasionally or as needed.
Advice
- If it is too difficult to get the orchid out of the pot, break the pot to free it.
- Prepare your workspace by covering the area with newspaper or plastic.
Warnings
- Do not change an orchid's pot mixture on a whim. If you think a different mix will favor the plant, find out about it and wait for the right time to change the pot.
- Always choose a pot with drainage holes in the bottom. If the water builds up and stagnates, the roots could rot.
