Every type of orchid has different requirements for potting. It is of the utmost importance that you follow the guidelines for a particular orchid. The media for pots can vary to include fir bark, coconut husk, sphagnum moss, tree fern fibers and pertile. Often times the best approach is to take a mixture of two or three of these materials. Without question all orchids potted in your average bark need to be repotted every 18 - 24 months depending on the individual plant. I recommend adding this event to your calendar.
The main purpose of repotting your orchid is to provide fresh media and therefore fresh nutrients to your plant. It isn't always necessary to provide a bigger pot but if the roots are larger and need it there is no need to squash your Orchid into the same sized pot. Having said this though, orchids like to be a little snug in their pots, so don't make it too big either. If an orchid is in a pot that is too large, they tend to focus more on growing roots than flowering, a we want our orchids to look beautiful.
Grow Calendar 2011
The type of pot isn't so important as orchids can be potted in either plastic, clay or decorator pots. The type of pot the plant is in can effect how often you will need to water, so keep an eye on this the first few times. Make sure you always use pots with drainage holes, orchid roots should never be sitting in still water because they may rot and die. Not Good!
Orchids should not be repotted without a compelling reason. If, for example, aeration of the potting materials is poor because of decomposition, it must be replaced. Care must be taken to ensure that new growths and shoots are not overlapping the rim of the pot - large, neglected plants that have been potted for a long time are notoriously difficult to handle, and it is easy to break off new shoots and roots. But, when in doubt, put it off for another year!
The best tip is to be careful, orchids are very delicate plants, be kind to them and they will be kind to you.
Repotting an Orchid Grow Calendar 2011
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