Growing and Repotting Orchids: A Beginner’s Guide
Orchids are beautiful and fascinating plants that can add a touch of elegance to any home. They’re relatively easy to care for, but there are a few things you need to know to keep them healthy and thriving.
When to Repot Orchids
One of the most important things to know about orchids is when to repot them. Orchids don’t like to be repotted too often, so it’s important to wait until it’s really necessary. There are two main signs that your orchid needs to be repotted:
- The roots are starting to grow out of the pot. If you see white roots poking out between the spaces in the container, it’s time to repot your orchid.
- The potting medium is breaking down. Orchids grow in a very chunky potting mix. When it breaks down into smaller bits, it won’t drain as well. Change out the potting mix to give your orchid’s roots the air they need.
How to Repot an Orchid
Once you’ve determined that your orchid needs to be repotted, it’s time to get started. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Choose a new pot. The new pot should be an inch or two (2.5-5 cm) larger than the old one. Specialized orchid planters have holes all around the surface to increase air circulation in the roots, but you can use a traditional terra cotta pot as well.
- Prepare the potting mix. Put your orchid potting mix into a large bowl and cover it with boiling water. Allow the water to cool to room temperature, then drain the potting mix.
- Soak the planter and tools. One of the most important things to do when repotting an orchid is to make sure everything is clean. Soak the planter and any tools you’ll be using in a solution of 1/2 cup (120 ml) of household bleach and 1 gallon (4 L) of water.
- Remove the orchid from the old pot. Gently pull the pot away from the plant and wash off the roots. Use sharp scissors to cut off any brown or rotting roots.
- Fill the new pot with potting mix. Place the orchid in the new pot so that the base is right at the top of the potting mix.
- Water the orchid. Water the orchid thoroughly until the potting mix is evenly moist.
Orchid Care
Once you’ve repotted your orchid, it’s important to provide it with the proper care to help it thrive. Here are a few tips:
- Water your orchid regularly. Orchids need to be watered regularly, but don’t overwater them. Let the potting mix dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilize your orchid monthly. Use a balanced orchid fertilizer to help your orchid grow and bloom.
- Provide your orchid with bright, indirect light. Orchids need bright light to grow, but they don’t like direct sunlight. Place your orchid in a spot where it will get plenty of indirect light.
- Repot your orchid every 2-3 years. Orchids don’t like to be repotted too often, but they will need to be repotted every 2-3 years as they grow.
Troubleshooting
If you’re having problems with your orchid, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem.
- My orchid is not blooming. Orchids need a period of cool temperatures to bloom. Try moving your orchid to a cooler location for a few weeks.
- The leaves on my orchid are turning yellow. This could be a sign that your orchid is getting too much sunlight. Move your orchid to a spot where it will get less direct sunlight.
- The roots on my orchid are rotting. This could be a sign that your orchid is being overwatered. Let the potting mix dry out completely between waterings.
With a little care and attention, you can keep your orchids healthy and blooming for years to come.
