1️⃣ When to Repot Your Orchid
The right time isn't tied to a specific season, but to the condition of the plant. Repot when you notice one of these three signs:
| Situation | What to Look For | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Pot too small | Leaves are curling, roots are crowding the pot | Transfer to a larger, compatible pot |
| Plant loose from substrate | Roots exposed, substrate falling out | Gently lift, center the plant, and refill |
| Rotten roots | Dark, mushy roots, bad smell | Cut dead tissue, clean, and repot in fresh mix |
2️⃣ Choose the Right Pot
- Transparency – Orchid roots are green and need light for photosynthesis; a glass or clear plastic pot allows this.
- Excellent drainage – Ensure there are several large holes at the bottom to prevent water stagnation.
Avoid ceramic or opaque plastic pots and never place the orchid in a saucer that doesn't drain; both block photosynthesis for the roots and encourage rot.
3️⃣ The Ideal Orchid Substrate
Orchids are epiphytes; they thrive in a "tree-dwelling" mix made of bark, sphagnum moss, coconut fiber, and perlite.
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Bark | Rapid drainage, prevents waterlogging |
| Sphagnum moss / Coco fiber | Retains a modest amount of moisture, reducing watering frequency |
| Perlite | Adds aeration and keeps the mix lightweight |
A mix with too much bark dries out quickly; a mix that is too dense holds water and can cause root rot. Choose a high-quality blend and refresh it every 1-2 years.
4️⃣ Remove Dead Roots
After extracting the plant, inspect every root. Cut only the sections that are brown, mushy, or completely dried out. Some roots might look dry but are still alive—look for a slight green line on the side.
- Use clean, sharp scissors or prune with your fingers.
- Disinfect your tools between cuts to avoid spreading pathogens.
- Leave any root intact that shows even a bit of green tissue.
5️⃣ Post-Repotting Bath
Once the orchid is centered in its new pot, give it a brief soak:
- Submerge the entire pot (without the saucer) in room-temperature water.
- Leave it for 5-10 minutes so the new substrate gets fully wetted.
- Drain the excess water and place the pot back on its stand.
This "bath" reduces transplant shock and ensures the new substrate settles around the roots.
Follow these five steps and your orchids will stay healthy, bloom more often, and reward you with spectacular flowers.
