Repot Orchids In A Jiffy: A Beginner's Guide To Repotting Orchids

If this is your first time to repot an orchid

, one very important thing to keep in mind is to relax! The task at hand is very different from repotting other kinds of plants but there is no need to fear. As long as you know what to do then it is assured that you will do well in repotting orchids. Take your time when repotting orchids, do not rush thinking your orchids will shrivel up and die once they are out of the pot. In contrary, it is good for the roots to be out of the pot once in a while to gather fresh oxygen.

When Is The Best Time To Repot?

Most orchid growers repot in the late spring or the start of the summer season. When you see new growth beginning to appear from your plant, then it is the best time to repot. Most orchids require every two years to be repotted before the potting medium begins to break down. If the orchid has just been repotted recently, do not repot again unless there is decay or your orchid has a fungal or bacterial disease.

Step 1: Unpotting Your Orchid

Repotting can be a messy activity; spread some newspapers onto your work area to minimize making too much mess. Holding your plant in the midsection where the leaves and the roots meet, turn the pot and the plant upside down. Try dislodging the plant from its pot by gently thumping the sides and the bottom of the pot. If some of the roots have attached themselves on the inside of the pot, loosen them using a sterilized knife. Remove the potting mix from the roots of your orchid by carefully prying your fingers through them. Try to shake off as much old potting mixture as you can.

Step 2: Remove Dead Roots

Before you repot your orchids, you must remove the dead roots. Cut the dead roots using sterilized scissors. Inspect the orchid leaves as well and pull any dead leaves.You will know if the roots are dead if they have a light brown color and feel mushy when you squeeze them gently. Healthy roots are hard and firm with white color and light green growing tips.

Step 3: Repot Your Orchid

Since you should only repot your plant every 2 years, choose a pot that will accommodate two years worth or growth. If the pot you plan to use is an old one, make sure that you have sterilized it in 10 percent solution bleach for 30 minutes. New clay pots must be soaked in water for a few minutes before using to repot your orchid.

Place your orchid in the middle of the empty pot and start to fill it with potting mixture from the sides. Ensure that you have put enough potting mixture in the pot for your orchid to be securely in place. You may consider using a rhizome clip until the new root system is established.

Place your newly potted orchid in a lightly shaded location and mist it for a few days. Once you see new root growth, resume normal provision of the plant's requirements.

Find out everything you need to know about growing orchids. For more valuable orchids information, please visit Orchid Growing Secrets where you will find great insights and many tips on orchid growing. Be sure to sign up for our Free Orchid Growing Mini-Course at http://orchidgrowingsecrets.org.

Repot Orchids In A Jiffy: A Beginner's Guide To Repotting Orchids

By: Cathy Carmento

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