You may have been recently gifted an orchid, or perhaps you already grow a few among your houseplants. Spring is a good time to repot them, but only if they genuinely need it. A quick look at your plant will tell you whether it is time.
Does your orchid need repotting?
Orchids don't have large root systems, although they often produce long roots that grow at unusual angles. In most cases, there is no need to repot for at least a year after buying the plant.
Orchid compost is coarse and contains very little nutrition. Adding more compost will not feed your plant. Regular applications of liquid fertiliser are what keep orchids healthy and flowering well.
Understanding moth orchids
Moth orchids, Phalaenopsis, are the most popular type. Their flowers can last for several months. Once blooms fade, more often appear from the old flower stem.
When plants are well fed, each new leaf should be followed by a new flower stem. As fresh leaves develop, the oldest leaf often dies back. Over time, the plant can grow upwards and become unstable, almost lifting itself out of the pot.
This is the point when repotting is needed. It may be as long as two years after you first bought the plant.
Choosing the right pot and compost
Most orchids are sold in transparent pots. This allows the green-tipped roots to receive light and grow well.
As the plant itself will not be much larger, it's usually best to reuse the same pot. Position the orchid slightly lower in the compost. Moving it into a much larger pot increases the risk of overwatering.
Always use a specialist orchid compost. Never use standard potting compost, which will kill the plant.
Step by step guide to repotting an orchid
• Gently tip the plant out of its pot and loosen the compost from the roots. Trim away any dead material at the base of the plant and remove dead roots.
• Cut off old, dead flower stems. Check around the base for scale insects or mealy bug and remove any brown, dead leaves.
• Place a small amount of fresh orchid compost in the bottom of the pot. Hold the plant in position and add more compost around the roots.
• Shake the pot lightly as you add compost so it settles around the roots. Tap the pot gently to firm the plant at the correct height.
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