05/30/2020
Spring is a good time to start checking your orchids for repotting. There is much less stress on the plants if you pot them up when the new roots are just forming. Generally, orchids need to be repotted every one to two years. There are three main things to look for when deciding if it is time. 1. The size of the plant. 2. The condition of the roots 3. The condition of the mix. The plant should fit in the pot with little space. When choosing to re pot for size, choose a container that is only an inch or so larger than the root ball. Too much space around the plant will cause the mix to become stagnant and sour. The roots should, in most cases, not be bound tightly, although some plants like to be potted tight. If the roots begin circling the top of the pot, they are looking for more space. Older shriveled roots are ok and will help to anchor the plant in the new mix. Rotted roots should be removed,as the rot can spread. Each mix has a different pot life. Check your mix for signs that it is breaking down, or turning sour. A bad smell is a dead give away that it is time to change out the mix. Spagnum moss gets slimy and wood chip based mixes start to look like coffee grounds.
