the
 when to repot

click on photo to see a close-up

One of the most common reasons to repot an orchid is because it has outgrown its present pot, this orchid should have been repotted a year ago. Often a plant looks sickly with no signs of disease. This can indicate that there is substantial root loss due to a breakdown of the medium. Overwatering often leads to this problem. Notice the dehydrated leaves; this is because there are no roots to take up water or nutrients. Don't wait until your orchids get to this stage to repot them. The preferred time to repot a sympodial orchid is when there is a cluster of root tips at the base of the new lead. This usually occurs in the spring.

-----© 2009 AMERICAN ORCHID SOCIETY   -   WWW.AOS.ORG  -  PROTECTED BY DIGIMARC-----
There is no substitute for observation. By looking at your orchids regularly you can repot them before problems develop and maintain their good health. Healthy orchids flower better.
Monopodial orchids grow UP and out of the pot. Although Phalaenopsis may grow okay like this, flowers are presented poorly. Repotting also gives us the opportunity to remove old, dead material and freshen up the plant in general. Note the active root tips, indicating a good time to repot. Vandaceous orchids also grow UP and out. When they get really leggy, it's time to repot. Flowers are presented better if we remove the old rootless portion of the plant. Be sure that you have active green roots above where you intend to cut so that the plant can establish itself quickly in its new home.

© 2009 AMERICAN ORCHID SOCIETY   -   WWW.AOS.ORG  -  PROTECTED BY DIGIMARC