Six key points to note when dividing orchids

Spring-bloomingfloweringorchidsshould be divided from late September to November or before new shoots sprout. When dividing, note the following:

1. Wash the orchid roots clean. After the potting medium has dried out thoroughly, gently remove the plant, cut off rotten roots and broken roots, rinse the roots and leaves with clean water, and let them dry until the orchid roots soften. Then use scissors to cut at the pseudobulb gaps that are large, coat the cut surfaces with charcoal or sulfur powder (to prevent infection by pathogens), and then replant.

2. The orchid pot must be breathable. Generally speaking, clay pots have the best ventilation and breathability, purple clay pots are next, and porcelain pots are the worst. No matter what kind of pot is used to grow orchids, the bottom of the pot must be filled with a relatively coarse material to ensure ventilation and breathability.

3. The growing medium must drain well.Growing orchidsis mainly about growing roots. If orchids are not grown well, nine times out of ten the problem lies in poor medium breathability and drainage leading to root rot. Practice has proved thatfor growing orchids,the growing medium is best made by mixing granular medium with sieved orchid mud.

4. Roots and soil must be in close contact. When planting, face the new shoots outward to promote growth. When potting, place the plant in the middle of the pot so that it is evenly distributed in the pot. Hold the seedling with one hand. Fill in nutrient soil with the other hand, shaking the pot while filling so that the roots and soil are in close contact.

5. Water thoroughly. After potting, water thoroughly and place in a wind-sheltered, slightly shaded and humid place. Afterward, control the amount of water appropriately until the new shoots sprout.

6. The site must be well ventilated. Whether it is courtyardcultivationor balconycultivation,it is best to place them on orchid racks that are open on all four sides. Enclosed balconies should have sliding windows. This is very beneficial for reducing orchidpests and diseases.