When to Repot Mo Lan
As one of the four major orchid strains in China, Mo Lan is deeply loved by orchid enthusiasts for its elegant flower posture and distant fragrance. However, many orchid enthusiasts often damage the plants due to improper potting operations. This article will systematically analyze the golden rules of repotting Mo Lan from the time selection to the details of care.
Three Core Elements of Mo Lan Repotting
Accurate Seasonal Temperature Control
The best repotting period is concentrated in spring and autumn, and it needs to meet three conditions: ① a 15-20 day nutritional recovery period after flowering ② daytime temperature stable in the range of 25-30°C ③ consecutive sunny days with humidity ≤65%. Special attention should be paid to delaying repotting during the plum rain season in the south and the heating period in the north.
Scientific Upgrade of Plant Material Ratio
Recommended advanced matrix formula: decomposed pine bark (40%) + volcanic rock (30%) + peanut shell (15%) + perlite (15%), this ratio has the dual advantages of water retention and breathability. When repotting every year, 1/3 of the protective soil should be retained, and the new soil needs to be sterilized by high-temperature steaming.
Key Steps of Root Treatment
After removing the pot, the following steps need to be carried out: ① cut off black and rotten empty roots (retain 3cm of healthy roots) ② soak in carbendazim (1:800 solution for 20 minutes) ③ air-dry the roots until the incision forms a film (about 3 hours). For dividing seedlings, ensure that each cluster retains 4-5 pseudobulbs, and apply charcoal powder to the incisions to prevent infection.
Four-Stage Care Method Ensures Survival
Planting Period Management (1-7 Days)
Use moist soil for planting, and water along the pot edge 3 days later. Maintain a scattered light environment, spray twice a day (avoiding the leaf heart), and use a special orchid support to secure the plant.
Recovery Period Care (8-15 Days)
Gradually increase the duration of sunlight, and spray once a week with brassinolide (1:1500). When new roots sprout to 2cm, a thin solution of orchid bacteria king (1:2000) can be applied.
Experienced orchid enthusiasts suggest: avoid applying solid fertilizers in the first 3 months after repotting, and supplement nutrition through foliar fertilizers. Change the pot material (terracotta → purple sand → plastic cyclic use) every year when repotting, which can effectively prevent salt and alkali accumulation.