How to Repot a Phalaenopsis Orchid? Detailed Guide to the Correct Methods and Steps

1. Pot selection: Generally, use unglazed clay pots or plastic pots, with multi-holed pots being preferable. For better airflow, shallow pots are best, and the pot height should ideally be less than the pot diameter.

2. Growing medium selection: Phalaenopsis is a typical epiphytic orchid with a well-developed root system, so the growing medium must be loose, airy, well-draining and rot-resistant. Based on the author's growing experience, for phalaenopsis grown in the north, locally available pine needles, peanut shells, bark strips and the like can be used as the medium. Repotting must be done every year; if repotting is not done in time, the potting medium rots, causing compaction and poor airflow, and the orchid's growth declines severely, or it may even die.

3. Repotting time and method: The best time to repot a phalaenopsis is in late spring and early summer, ideally when the temperature is above 20°C. At this time the flowering period has just ended and new roots are beginning to grow. When repotting, first cut off the flower stalk, gently remove the original nursery pot, use your fingers to dig out the old medium from the lower part, cut away dried old roots, roots with rust-colored spots and broken roots, line the bottom of the pot with broken tile pieces, place a layer of sterilized damp pine needles in the bottom of the pot first, spread the phalaenopsis roots evenly and place them into the pot, then continue placing pine needles around the orchid's root system, pressing gently to firm it so the orchid stands steady. When planting, note that the rhizome of the orchid should be level with the rim of the pot, then spray with water and place it in a ventilated spot indoors. During this period, do not fertilize; for care, simply mist and water appropriately. After one month, leaf buds will grow, and then normal care can resume.