What issues should be considered when repotting orchids
This article provides a detailed introduction to the issues that need to be considered when repotting orchids and how long it takes to fertilize green plants and flowers. The following is a detailed explanation by the editor.
Orchids are elegant and beautiful flowers, loved by many flower enthusiasts for their unique fragrance and graceful posture. However, the care of orchids is not simple, especially the processes of repotting and fertilizing, which require special attention.
I. Issues to consider when repotting orchids 1. Choosing the right time for repotting The best time to repot orchids is in spring and autumn when temperatures are moderate, which is conducive to the growth and recovery of orchids. Avoid repotting in the hot summer and cold winter to prevent damage to the orchids. 2. Preparing suitable potting soil Orchids have high soil requirements and need to choose soil that is well-ventilated, good at drainage, and rich in humus. A mixture of decomposed leaf soil, perlite, and vermiculite can be used in a certain proportion to meet the growth needs of orchids. At the same time, some orchid-specific bottom fertilizers, such as bone meal and decomposed chicken manure, need to be prepared to provide sufficient nutrients. 3. Choosing the right pot Orchid roots are well-developed and require pots with good ventilation and drainage, such as purple sand pots and ceramic pots. The size of the pot should be moderate, neither too large nor too small, to avoid affecting the growth of the orchids. Also, the pot bottom needs to have drainage holes to ensure soil drainage. 4. Preparations before repotting Before repotting, the orchids need to be pruned appropriately to remove withered leaves and weak roots. At the same time, the orchids need to be disinfected to prevent the spread of bacteria. Disinfectants such as carbendazim and thiophanate-methyl can be used, diluted according to the instructions, and the orchids soaked for 10-15 minutes. 5. Repotting method Remove the orchid from the original pot, gently shake off excess soil to expose the roots. Place the orchid in the new pot, allowing the roots to naturally spread out, then fill with the prepared soil and gently compact. Do not compact the soil too tightly to avoid affecting the orchid's respiration. Finally, sprinkle orchid-specific bottom fertilizer evenly on the soil surface and cover with a thin layer of soil. 6. Post-repotting care After repotting, place the orchid in a shaded and well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not overly wet to prevent root rot. As the orchid recovers and grows, gradually increase sunlight to promote growth.
II. How long to fertilize after repotting orchids After repotting, orchids need some time to adapt to the new growth environment, so it is not recommended to fertilize immediately. Generally, orchids need 1-2 weeks to recover and grow after repotting. During this time, the orchid roots will gradually adapt to the new soil environment and start absorbing nutrients and moisture. Therefore, fertilizing can begin after the orchid recovers and starts growing. The principle of fertilizing orchids is "apply thin fertilizer frequently," meaning each application should be small, but the frequency should be high. Generally, fertilizing can start 2-3 weeks after repotting, with intervals of 10-15 days between applications. For fertilizing, choose a special orchid liquid fertilizer, diluted according to the instructions, and water it on the soil surface. Organic fertilizers such as bone meal and decomposed chicken manure can also be used, sprinkled evenly on the soil surface and covered with a thin layer of soil. It is important to fertilize orchids moderately, as too much or too little will affect their growth. Over-fertilizing can cause yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-fertilizing can lead to slow growth and yellowing leaves. Therefore, during the fertilization process, it is necessary to adjust the amount and frequency of fertilization based on the growth condition of the orchid.
III. Precautions when fertilizing orchids 1. Avoid using raw fertilizers Raw fertilizers refer to organic fertilizers that have not been decomposed, such as fresh chicken manure and cow dung. Raw fertilizers contain a lot of bacteria and eggs, which can easily cause diseases and pests in orchids. Therefore, when fertilizing, always choose decomposed organic fertilizers to ensure the healthy growth of orchids. 2. Avoid using high-concentration fertilizers High-concentration fertilizers can cause leaf burns and root rot in orchids. Therefore, when fertilizing, always dilute according to the instructions and avoid using high-concentration fertilizers. 3. Avoid fertilizing in high and low temperatures High and low temperatures can inhibit the growth of orchids and reduce their ability to absorb fertilizers. Therefore, in the hot summer and cold winter, it is necessary to reduce the amount and frequency of fertilization to avoid damaging the orchids. 4. Avoid fertilizing during the flowering period of orchids During the flowering period, orchids need to consume a lot of nutrients, so it is not recommended to fertilize during this time. Otherwise, it can lead to withered flowers and yellowing leaves. During the flowering period, you can increase sunlight to promote photosynthesis and provide sufficient nutrients.
In summary, repotting and fertilizing are very important aspects of orchid care. When repotting, attention should be paid to choosing the right time, soil, and pot, as well as appropriate pruning and disinfection. When fertilizing, follow the principle of "apply thin fertilizer frequently" and adjust the amount and frequency of fertilization based on the orchid's growth condition. At the same time, it is important to avoid using raw fertilizers, high-concentration fertilizers, and to fertilize during high and low temperatures or the flowering period. Only by doing a good job of repotting and fertilizing orchids can ensure their healthy growth and beautiful blooms.
The above is a complete introduction to the issues that need to be considered when repotting orchids and how long it takes to fertilize, for everyone to learn and understand!