Repotting Your Orchid
Can I plant my Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium, Oncidium, or Cattleya in the ground?
No, we do not recommend planting any of those orchids in the ground.
My Phalaenopsis’ leaves are extending beyond the rim of the pot. Does this mean my pot is too small?
No. The pot size is based on the root ball mass size – not the size of the foliage. Leaves will most often extend over the edge of the pot.
I recently repotted my Phalaenopsis, but I think I repotted it in a pot that is too small. How soon can I repot it again to a larger pot?
Do not over pot. When re-potting Phalaenopsis, select the pot based on the root ball mass size – not the size of the foliage. Leaves will most often extend over the edge of the pot. Plants are usually repotted annually. If the mix has not broken down and the orchid dries out within 7-10 days, you can go another season without repotting.
How can I tell a live orchid root from a dead one?
Sometimes it is difficult to tell live orchid roots from dead ones. Live roots usually have firm substance; while dead roots are usually dry. A useful test is to pinch a root between thumb and forefinger and pull away from the plant. If the velamen comes off leaving a thin, wiry root behind, the root is dead and can be removed.
Where should I cut a flower spike on a Phalaenopsis?
After the flowers on a Phalaenopsis have died, you can cut the spike above the second node. The node is an enlarged bump on the spike. Phalaenopsis will sometimes produce more flowers with this treatment. You may also cut the spike off completely and allow the orchid to put all of its energy into a new spike.
What kind of planter/pot should I purchase if I want to make an arrangement of orchids?
Pots with drainage holes work best, however a lot of pots don’t have drainage holes. If yours does not, be sure to tip the pot to the side after watering and pour off any excess water that is sitting in the pot. Do not leave water standing in the bottom of the pot as this will rot your orchid’s roots.
If I plant something in the same pot as my orchid, will it “choke” the orchid?
No. As long as you water enough to keep both plants adequately hydrated.
What is the advantage of planting in a wooden basket over a plastic one?
There is no advantage. It’s just a matter of aesthetics; the wooden basket looks more natural and would allow for greater aeration of the roots.
Can I plant my Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium, Oncidium, or Cattleya in the ground?
No, we do not recommend planting any of those orchids in the ground.
My Phalaenopsis’ leaves are extending beyond the rim of the pot. Does this mean my pot is too small?
No. The pot size is based on the root ball mass size – not the size of the foliage. Leaves will most often extend over the edge of the pot.
I recently repotted my Phalaenopsis, but I think I repotted it in a pot that is too small. How soon can I repot it again to a larger pot?
Do not over pot. When re-potting Phalaenopsis, select the pot based on the root ball mass size – not the size of the foliage. Leaves will most often extend over the edge of the pot. Plants are usually repotted annually. If the mix has not broken down and the orchid dries out within 7-10 days, you can go another season without repotting.
How can I tell a live orchid root from a dead one?
Sometimes it is difficult to tell live orchid roots from dead ones. Live roots usually have firm substance; while dead roots are usually dry. A useful test is to pinch a root between thumb and forefinger and pull away from the plant. If the velamen comes off leaving a thin, wiry root behind, the root is dead and can be removed.
Where should I cut a flower spike on a Phalaenopsis?
After the flowers on a Phalaenopsis have died, you can cut the spike above the second node. The node is an enlarged bump on the spike. Phalaenopsis will sometimes produce more flowers with this treatment. You may also cut the spike off completely and allow the orchid to put all of its energy into a new spike.
What kind of planter/pot should I purchase if I want to make an arrangement of orchids?
Pots with drainage holes work best, however a lot of pots don’t have drainage holes. If yours does not, be sure to tip the pot to the side after watering and pour off any excess water that is sitting in the pot. Do not leave water standing in the bottom of the pot as this will rot your orchid’s roots.
If I plant something in the same pot as my orchid, will it “choke” the orchid?
No. As long as you water enough to keep both plants adequately hydrated.
What is the advantage of planting in a wooden basket over a plastic one?
There is no advantage. It’s just a matter of aesthetics; the wooden basket looks more natural and would allow for greater aeration of the roots.