When is the Best Time to Repot Orchids
Orchids, as elegant indoor ornamental plants, the potting operation directly affects their growth status and flowering quality. Mastering the correct potting method and timing can help the orchid plants quickly adapt to the new environment and avoid issues like root rot and yellow leaves. This article systematically analyzes the entire potting process through practical operation illustrations.
1. Choosing the Best Time to Repot Orchids
1.1 Spring and Autumn Golden Potting Periods
In spring, from March to April when the temperature rises to 15-25°C, orchids end their dormancy and enter the growing period, and potting at this time can accelerate the germination of new roots. In autumn, from September to October, when the day-night temperature difference is stable and the plants accumulate nutrients, potting can enhance their cold resistance.
1.2 Principles for Handling Special Circumstances
When the overflow of roots at the bottom of the pot, the compaction of the planting material, or infection with diseases is observed, immediate potting is required. Operations in winter need to maintain a room temperature of over 18°C, and summer operations need to be combined with shading and cooling measures.
2. Professional Orchid Repotting Technique Guide
2.1 Preparation of Containers and Planting Material
Choose an unglazed ceramic pot with a diameter 3-5cm larger than the original pot, and prepare a mixed matrix consisting of decomposed pine bark (40%), volcanic rock (30%), perlite (20%), and charcoal granules (10%) to ensure a balance between breathability and water retention.
2.2 Scientific Potting and Root Pruning Method
Stop watering 3 days before repotting, and use a bamboo skewer to loosen the soil along the pot wall. Cut off the blackened and empty roots, retaining the healthy crystal heads. Soak the roots in a 800x solution of carbendazim for 20 minutes, and let them dry halfway before use.
2.3 Layered Soil Filling and Planting Techniques
Place 3cm of broken tiles at the bottom of the pot as a drainage layer, fill in 1/3 of the planting material, then place the orchid plant, keeping the pseudobulb level with the pot rim. Fill the soil while gently shaking the pot to ensure the roots are fully in contact with the material. Finally, cover with moss to retain moisture.
3. Key Points of Care After Repotting
After planting, place the plant in a scattered light area to acclimate for 2 weeks, do not water for the first 3 days, and maintain humidity through foliar spraying. After 15 days, apply a diluted 3000x orchid-specific nutrient solution, gradually transitioning to normal care.
Mastering these core potting techniques can help orchids maintain vigorous vitality. It is recommended to repot every 2-3 years, combining division propagation to turn one pot into multiple. Different orchid varieties may slightly adjust the planting material ratio, for example, increasing the humus soil ratio for spring orchids, and using more granular media forjian orchids.