Have had this orchid for just over a year now and I'm wondering if/when they need to be repotted. It's my first orchid, so I'm not quite sure what the best thing to do is. I think the roots have filled out the pot quite a bit and they are poking out quite a lot as well, but does that mean it needs repotting or is it okay because it's an orchid? It's also about to bloom, so do I wait until it's done blooming or is it okay to do while blooming? Do I cut off the roots sticking out of the bottom of the pot or can I get them out somehow? I have so many questions, and any help would be appreciated.
by Qwiartz
7 Comments
It is fine. Wait until it finishes blooming.
You should wait until the flowering ends to repot. So yeah, it needs a repotting. Remember to use orchid bark as media and to choose a pot with drainage holes. Also, you’ll have to cut those roots growing from the drainage holes.
They like to be root bound, so its good. You can wait. You only “have” to repot when the media is breaking down and holding too much water. Then there is a risk of rot if you don’t.
I don’t see any immediate need for repotting. Ideally you’d wait for vegetative growth in spring when it’s warmer and brighter, so as to get a smoother transition. Obviously needs must when an orchid has a problem in the pot but yours isn’t showing any signs of rot so no real need. Roots growing out of the bottom is normal and most will do that. From my rehab experience, them being cramped (yours isn’t at that stage yet) is a fairly good thing – much rather that than them get root shock and/or have too much pot for the root system in winter, when rot is a much higher risk. x
Orchids dont often grow more roots while blooming. Yes, they can, but Bloom season isn’t growth season. Deal with it once it’s done blooming so it can focus on root production.
Carefully cut the rotted roots off and repot.
Wait 3 days before watering.
Are the roots green after watering or grey?
Not while in bud/bloom