How to change the soil and pot of orchids?

If you want your orchid to grow vigorously, the skill of repotting is crucial. If the pot is changed improperly, it may cause problems in later maintenance. Many friends who grow orchids don’t know how to change pots. Let’s learn together how to change the soil and pots of orchids.

1. When to change the pot

As for the time to repot orchids, the best time in southern regions is between the vernal equinox and the summer solstice, or between the autumnal equinox and the winter solstice, that is, spring and autumn. In the northern region, as long as the temperature remains between 5 and 30 degrees, it is also suitable for repotting. If there are conditions to control the temperature, such as in an air-conditioned room or a greenhouse, it is feasible to change the pots in four seasons. Suitable temperatures help orchids grow new roots and shoots quickly. On the contrary, repotting during the dormant period or slow growth season can easily lead to root rot and leaf rot.

2. Choose the right flower pot

There are two common types of flower pots on the market: tall and thin pots and short and fat pots. The tall pot is slender and has multiple air holes, which is suitable for the orchid roots to grow downward. The short and fat pot has a large internal space, which is suitable for the hot and muggy environment in summer and helps keep the root temperature moderate. When choosing a flowerpot, you can decide based on the size of the orchid's crown. The size of a tall pot should be 1.5 times the crown diameter, while that of a short and fat pot should be 2 to 3 times.

3. Selection of planting materials

Orchids have high soil requirements, and choosing the wrong soil may lead to root rot or slow growth. The choice of planting materials should be determined according to the humidity of the maintenance environment. In a dry environment, you should choose planting materials with better moisture retention, such as peat soil or leaf mold. Indoors or in an environment with high humidity, particulate matter such as fermented bark, peanut shells or small expanded clay should be added to ensure that the soil dries quickly and avoid root rot.

4. Timing of fertilization after repotting

After repotting, the timing of fertilizing orchids is also very important. Slow -release fertilizers release nutrients slowly and are suitable for use immediately after repotting. They help orchids absorb nutrients when their roots are weak. Liquid fertilizer is a quick-acting fertilizer and it is recommended to avoid using it within two to three months after repotting to avoid burning the roots. Nutrients can be supplemented by spraying low-concentration nutrient solution on the leaves, which can meet the growth needs of orchids without causing root burn.

5. Management after repotting

After repotting, orchids need proper seedling care. First, water the plants thoroughly to help them integrate with the soil and remove impurities from the roots. Then, place the orchid in a cool and ventilated place, away from direct sunlight to prevent the leaves from burning. Allow at least one week for the seedlings to grow, during which time keep the soil moist and gradually increase light until normal maintenance is resumed.

The above are the key points for repotting orchids. Repotting orchids can ensure their healthy growth and abundant flowering in the later stage. Choosing the right time, flowerpots, planting materials, reasonable fertilization, and correct seedling management are the keys to successful orchid repotting.