1️⃣ When to Repot Your Orchid
The timing isn’t tied to a specific season; it’s driven by the plant’s condition. Repot when you see one of these three signs:
| Situation | What to Look For | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Vase too small | Leaves curl, roots crowd the pot | Move to a larger container‑compatible pot |
| Plant out of substrate | Roots exposed, substrate falling out | Gently lift, centre the plant and refill |
| Rotting roots | Dark, mushy roots, foul smell | Trim dead tissue, clean, and repot in fresh mix |
2️⃣ Choose the Right Pot
- Transparency – Orchid roots are green and need light for photosynthesis; a clear glass or clear plastic pot lets them do it.
- Excellent drainage – Ensure several large holes at the bottom so water never pools.
Avoid opaque ceramic or plastic pots and never place the orchid in a non‑draining saucer; both block root photosynthesis and promote rot.
3️⃣ The Ideal Orchid Substrate
Orchids are epiphytes; they thrive in a “tree‑hole” mix of bark, sphagnum, coconut fibre and perlite.
| Component | Role |
|---|---|
| Bark (corteccia) | Fast drainage, prevents water‑logging |
| Sphagnum / coconut fibre | Retains a modest amount of moisture, reduces watering frequency |
| Perlite | Adds aeration and keeps the mix light |
A mix that is *too* bark‑heavy dries out quickly; a mix that is overly 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 taking the plant out, inspect every root. Cut away only the brown, mushy, or completely dry sections. Some roots look dry but are still alive—look for a faint green line on the side.
- Use clean, sharp scissors or prune with your fingers.
- Disinfect tools between cuts to avoid spreading pathogens.
- Leave any root that shows any green tissue.
5️⃣ Post‑Repot Soak
Once the orchid is centred 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 fresh medium fully wets.
- Drain excess water and return the pot to its stand.
This “bath” reduces transplant shock and ensures the new substrate adheres to the roots.
Follow these five steps and your orchids will stay healthy, bloom more often, and reward you with spectacular flowers.
