Correctly Replanting an Orchid for Optimal Growth and Survival
Orchids, the stunning and beloved blooms of the Orchidaceae family, make for a fantastic addition to any home as a houseplant. Known for their tall, elegant silhouettes and colorful display, orchids are the epitome of grace and sophistication. Among the countless orchid species, the moth orchid (Phalaenopsis) is the most common variety found in households worldwide.
Just like any plant, moth orchids require regular repotting to support healthy growth. Repotting involves transferring the orchid from its old pot to a new one. While this may seem daunting due to the delicate nature of orchids, the process is quite straightforward when done appropriately. We spoke with Sharon Yiesla, a plant knowledge specialist at The Morton Arboretum, to gather some insider tips and tricks to make orchid repotting stress-free.
The Importance of Repotting
Repotting plays a crucial role in orchid growth, helping plants adapt to their changing environment. As moth orchids flourish, they naturally begin to outgrow their current pot and require a larger container to accommodate their expanding root system. Repotting facilitates a fresh start by replacing the old potting mix and providing the necessary space for the root system to thrive.
Signs You Need to Repot
Knowing when to repot your moth orchid is essential for ensuring its continued growth. On average, orchids will not require repotting very often – perhaps every couple of years. However, there are a few indicators that it may be time to repot your beloved orchid.
- Size-to-Container Ratio: If your orchid's size appears disproportionate to the container, it is likely requiring a larger pot. This imbalance can hinder the plant's growth.
- Poor Potting Mix: Pay attention to the condition of the potting mix in your orchid's current container. If the medium appears deteriorated or moldy, it is time to transfer your plant to a fresh pot. This issue can manifest in a foul odor, or in some cases, be visually noticeable.
The Repotting Process
Repotting your moth orchid is straightforward when you have the right resources and know the proper steps. Here is a step-by-step guide for successfully repotting your orchid:
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Supplies
Before beginning the repotting process, make sure you have the following items on hand:
- A larger pot (one size larger than the current container)
- Orchid-specific potting mix
- A sterile tool (e.g., a knife or spatula)
Step 2: Choose the Right Time
The best time to repot your moth orchid is when it is not in bloom. This typically happens after the flowers have faded and the plant has finished flowering, or when you notice new roots beginning to grow through the potting media.
Step 3: Select a New Pot
Choose a pot made of either plastic or clay. The pot should be one size larger than the current container. This space will allow your orchid's roots to grow and provide a more comfortable environment for your plant.
Step 4: Prepare the New Potting Mix
Special potting mixes are essential for growing orchids. Look for a mix containing large particles, such as bark, charcoal, pumice, coco coir, sponge rock, and perlite. A good starting ratio is 50-60% bark to 40-50% other materials.
Step 5: Remove the Plant from the Old Pot
Gently remove the orchid from its old pot by tilting it on its side and sliding it out. If the plant is stuck, use a knife or spatula to loosen it from the sides.
Step 6: Inspect and Trim the Roots
After removing the orchid from its pot, inspect its roots for any dead or rotting parts. Remove these sections using a sterile tool to prevent the spread of disease.
Step 7: Repot the Orchid
Place the orchid in the new pot, ensuring that the rhizome is above the potting mix. Fill in the gaps around the roots with the fresh orchid-specific potting mix, gently firming it around the protect the plant's roots.
Step 8: Water After Repotting
Water the orchid thoroughly after repotting, ensuring that the potting mix is moist but not waterlogged. Horticulturist Sharon Yiesla suggests using the immersion method by placing the pot in a bucket of water for a few minutes to ensure that the roots absorb enough moisture.
Step 9: Provide Proper Care Post-Repotting
Place the repotted orchid in a bright, indirectly lit area with moderate to high humidity. Be mindful of direct sunlight, as it can cause sunburn and stress to the plant.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When repotting your moth orchid, avoid these common mistakes to ensure proper care and continued growth:
- Using the wrong potting mix: Select an orchid-specific potting mix that contains large particles, such as bark, charcoal, and perlite. Avoid traditional potting mixes, as they do not provide the necessary drainage or hold moisture adequately.
- Properly watering your orchid: Only water your orchid with room temperature water. Never use ice cubes to water your plant.
- Over-watering or under-watering: Monitor your orchid's moisture levels to avoid both over-watering and under-watering. Your moth orchid requires moisture but should not be waterlogged.
- Exposure to extreme temperatures: Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations by placing the orchid in a well-ventilated area that is not too hot or too cold.
- Neglecting proper humidity: Ensure that your orchid's environment maintains moderate to high humidity levels to support its growth.
- Over fertilizing: Refrain from fertilizing your orchid until it has been in its new pot for at least one month. After this period, use a balanced, orchid-specific fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Martha Stewart recommends using a larger pot for moth orchids during repotting to facilitate their growth and root development.
- Regularly inspecting the size-to-container ratio of your moth orchid can help you determine if it's time for repotting, as a disproportionate size may indicate the need for a larger container.
- Adding fresh orchid-specific potting mix during repotting is crucial, as it provides the necessary nutrients and drainage for the orchid's root system to thrive.
- Maybe it's time to consider repotting your moth orchid if you notice signs of a deteriorated potting mix, such as mold or an unpleasant odor, which can negatively impact the plant's health and growth.
