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Repotting orchids – instructions for healthy plants

Orchids are fascinating tropical plants. They need special care. As a Phalaenopsis lover, you know that repotting is important.

You should repot your orchid every two to three years. This is necessary when the substrate rots or the pot is too small. Proper root treatment and care are important for your orchid.

In their natural habitat, orchids grow on trees. They absorb nutrients from decaying material. For the best growth, use a special orchid substrate.

It consists mainly of pieces of bark that decompose slowly. This ensures that your Phalaenopsis grows well.

Key findings

  • Repot orchids every 2-3 years
  • Use a special orchid substrate
  • Spring is the best time to repot
  • Root treatment is crucial for plant health
  • Follow special care after repotting

The right time to repot orchids

Repotting is important for the health of your orchids. There are times and signs that show when it is time.

Optimal times of year for repotting

Spring is ideal for repotting. Shoots and roots grow quickly during this time. The end of January to the beginning of February, when the days get longer, is the best time.

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Signs that repotting is necessary

Observe these signs for emergency repotting:

  • Greasy or moldy substrate
  • Slumped soil
  • Muddy roots or too much aerial root formation
  • Yellow leaves (except the lowest ones)
  • Large root mass with little substrate
  • Vermin infestation

Salts may also have accumulated, even if everything looks fine. A change every one to two years helps roots and health.

Repotting during the flowering period

It is better to repot after flowering. But if necessary, you can also repot during flowering. Be careful to avoid stress.

Your orchid can usually survive this without losing any flowers.

Repotting orchids – step by step

Orchids should be repotted every two to three years. Spring or fall are the best times for this. With the right preparation and technique, repotting is easy.

Materials and tools required

You need the following for repotting:

  • Special substrate for orchids
  • New orchid pot (slightly larger than the old one)
  • Clean, sharp scissors
  • Disinfectant
  • Spray bottle with lukewarm water

Orchid pot and tools

Preparation of the plant

Water the orchid well before you start. Carefully remove it from the old pot. Carefully loosen the old substrate from the roots. Thorough root loosening is important.

Root treatment and substrate change

Carry out a root pruning. Remove dry or rotten root parts with scissors. Healthy roots are firm and white or green. If the plant is infested with pests, immerse it in water for a few hours. Then choose an air-permeable special substrate.

Potting into the new container

Choose a pot size that is just a little larger. Fill the pot with substrate in layers. Make sure that the root neck is level with the edge of the pot. Spread the substrate evenly and tap it down lightly.

Step Important points
Pre-watering 2 days before repotting
Substrate cleaning Completely remove old material
Root pruning Only remove dry or diseased parts
Substrate distribution Fill in in layers and press down lightly

After repotting, moisten the leaves with lukewarm water. Repeat this over the next few days. This will help the plant to acclimatize. Repotting is easy with these instructions.

Special care after repotting

After repotting, your orchid needs special attention. Appropriate care will help the plant to recover quickly. This will help it take root in its new home.

Watering and fertilizing rules

It is important to take a break from watering for a few days after repotting. Give your orchid about a week’s rest. This will allow small root injuries to recover.

Then start watering with weekly dipping baths. Make sure to remove excess water from the planter. This will prevent root rot.

You should suspend the fertilization interval for four weeks. Then fertilize every three weeks with special orchid fertilizer. Fertilizing is only permitted in flower-free phases.

Correct humidity

Orchids love a tropical climate. Support air humidification by occasionally spraying the leaves with lime-free water. Alternatively, you can set up water bowls.

These measures simulate the natural environment. They promote the growth of your orchid.

Orchid humidification

Observe the regeneration phase

Give your orchid time to acclimatize after repotting. Avoid direct sunlight and keep the temperature even. The duration of root regeneration varies depending on the species.

Watch your plant for signs of new growth. With the right care and a little patience, you can help minimize stress. Your orchid will soon be back in full bloom.

Conclusion

Proper care of orchids is very important. It ensures that the plants are healthy and bloom often. An important step is repotting, which is necessary every two to three years.

Spring is the best time for this. This is when orchids grow most vigorously.

Special orchid substrate must be used when repotting. A mixture of pine bark, coconut fibers, peat or sphagnum moss is ideal. This gives the roots the necessary support and enough air.

Care must be taken when transplanting. The roots should be firm and light green to silvery. Anything that is brown or soft must be removed.

After repotting, proper aftercare is important. The plants should be watered regularly, but not too much. Warm water in the morning is best.

A special orchid fertilizer also helps with growth. With the right care, orchids can flower long and often. It is important to know the needs of each orchid species.

FAQ

When is the best time to repot orchids?

The best time to repot is in spring when the plant is growing. This is usually from March to May. You should avoid repotting your orchid during the flowering period.

How do I know when my orchid needs repotting?

You need to repot when:– The roots are growing out of the pot– The substrate is decomposed– The plant is growing more slowly– The pot is cracked– It has been 2-3 years since you last repotted it

What materials do I need to repot an orchid?

You need:– A new pot that is 1-2 cm larger– Fresh orchid substrate– Scissors or a knife– Disinfectant– Wooden sticks and gloves (optional)

How do I treat the roots when repotting?

Treat the roots like this:1. remove old, dry or rotten roots2. carefully free the healthy roots3. check the roots for pests4. carry out a root pruning if necessary5. immerse the roots briefly in lukewarm water

How do I choose the right substrate for my orchid?

Choose a special orchid substrate. It should be air-permeable and stable. Avoid normal potting soil as it is too dense.

How do I care for my orchid immediately after repotting?

After repotting:1. refrain from watering for 1-2 weeks2. ensure sufficient humidity (50-70%)3. do not use fertilizer to avoid stressing the roots4. place the orchid in a bright spot, out of direct sunlight5. observe the plant for signs of stress or disease

Can I repot my orchid during the flowering period?

Avoid repotting your orchid during the flowering period. It can cause stress and cause the flowers to drop prematurely. You should only do this in emergencies, such as pest infestation.

How often should I repot my orchid?

Repot your orchid every 2-3 years. This can vary depending on growth and condition. Watch your plant for signs that it needs repotting.

How do I choose the right pot size for my orchid?

Choose a pot that is only 1-2 cm larger. The pot should not be too large. Make sure there are enough drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

How can I imitate the tropical climate for my orchid after repotting?

To create a tropical climate:1. increase the humidity by spraying or using a humidifier2. place the orchid on a pebble tray filled with water3. group several plants together to increase the humidity4. ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal infestation5. provide sufficient indirect light, similar to that under treetops

Simon Lüthje

I am co-founder of this blog and am very interested in everything that has to do with technology, but I also like to play games. I was born in Hamburg, but now I live in Bad Segeberg.

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