The best time to repot is just after flowering, or when new growth appears. If your orchid has tightly tangled roots, then it’s time to repot. It is normal for Phalaenopsis orchids to have roots that are loose, but this can be a sign that the plant is in poor health.
It’s normally a good idea to wait until the roots are thick enough to support the weight of the potting mix. If you wait too long, you could end up with a pot that’s too heavy for your orchard, and you won’t be able to move it around as much as you’d like.
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When should you repot orchids?
Orchids should be repotted when new; every year or two; or when crowded roots push up and out of the pot. Spring is the time for a close-up.
When your orchids are in bloom, you probably don’t pay much attention to them, other than watering and occasionally fertilization. If you can see the roots poking up from the bottom of your pot, then you’re good to go. If not, it’s probably time to start over.
What to do with an orchid when it’s done blooming?
You have three options if you want to leave the flower spike intact, cut it back or remove it completely. The flower spike should be removed at the base of the plant. If the existing stem starts to turn brown, this is the route to take.
You’ll need a sharp knife, a pair of scissors, and some patience. If you don’t have any of these tools, you can also use a garden shears to cut the stems back. Just make sure you’re careful not to damage the growing tips of your orchids.
How long does it take for orchids to rebloom?
It may seem like your plant is dead, but it is not. This stage usually lasts six to nine months. Your orchid will have the energy to grow again after that.
When you see the first signs of new growth, such as new leaves, new flowers, or new buds, it’s time for you to plant your new plants. If you wait too long, you may not be able to get your plants back to their full potential.
You may have to wait until the next growing season, when the plants will be ready for bloom.
Should my orchid roots be exposed?
You don’t need to do anything if the orchid air roots are firm and white. Accept that this is normal behavior.
Should you water an orchid after repotting?
The first week after repotting simply water and continue to mist your orchid on your personal schedule. If your Phalaenopsis is not fertilized, do not water it. After the third week, water the orchids on a daily basis.
If you do not have access to a watering can, you can use a spray bottle with a small amount of water in it. This will help to keep the soil moist. You can also add a few drops of liquid dishwashing detergent to the water to help keep it clean.
What do you soak orchid roots in before repotting?
The kind of cinnamon you use to cook with, as in cinnamon buns, should be prepared. They will need to dust the roots after they are cut. To loosen the potting medium and make the soil easier to work with, soak your orchid in a bucket of water for half an hour. Once the orchids are ready, place them on a tray and cover them with a damp towel.
Let them dry for a few hours, then remove them from the towel and let them air dry. They should be dry enough to handle, but not so dry that they won’t hold their shape when you pick them up. If they’re too dry, you’ll need to add more water to moisten them a bit. Once they’ve dried, they can be picked up and placed in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Do you still water orchids after flowering?
They should reduce watering during the post-flowering rest period. These varieties may rot and die if you overwater them. Phalaenopsis and Vanda orchids don’t have pseudobulbs that can store water, so you should water them thoroughly when the mix is nearly dry to keep them from drying out. Plant them in a well-drained pot with a good drainage hole in the bottom.
The pot should be large enough to hold the plant, but not so large that it will block the drainage holes. You may want to add a layer of peat moss or other organic mulch to the top of the soil to help keep the roots in place and prevent the plants from becoming rootbound.
How do I grow a new spike in my orchid?
To get a new orchid flower spike, place the plant in an area with a lower room temp — about 55–65°F at night should do it. It’s possible to place your orchid in a window away from the heating source. The best time to get new flower spikes is in the winter when our homes and windows are cooler than the day.