How to properly repot and rescue an orchid after root rot

Orchids are very prone to root rot, especially during the care process for beginners; improper soil mixing, improper watering, or poor ventilation will cause orchids to develop root rot. Root rot easily shows up on the leaves, including a large number of black spots on the leaves, as well as rotten leaves and so on. If you notice this, repot it promptly.

For an orchid with root rot, we first need to take it out of the pot and soil, check the roots, and thoroughly cut off the rotten roots, not keeping even a little bit of the rotten part. After pruning is done, it is time for sterilization. We can apply plant ash to the cut areas, or apply carbendazim, or directly mix carbendazim with water at a ratio of 1:800, put the orchid's roots in it to soak for about one hour, and then take them out.

The second step is drying the roots. Generally, for drying orchid roots, you can use a shade net or gauze to wrap the orchid's leaves, give it two or three hours of morning or afternoon sunlight, and dry the roots with better ventilation. The main purpose of drying the roots is to make them change from brittle to relatively flexible, so that when we repot, it is easier to straighten out the roots and they are less likely to break, which would cause new wounds.

Previously, when we washed the roots or soaked the roots in carbendazim, it would cause the roots to absorb enough water to become very brittle and easy to break. If they break after repotting, it will cause root rot to occur again. After drying, the roots become semi-dry, so the roots are relatively soft and flexible, with toughness, and are less likely to break during repotting. In addition, drying also activates their vitality and improves their growth capacity. During the drying process, it also lets the wounds be in a semi-healed state, with a feeling of scabbing, reducing new root rot and further increasing the probability of sprouting and growing new roots.

Then prepare new growing medium for planting. The growing medium must be loose and have good air permeability. Can the original pot be used? Yes, it can, but before use, it is best to thoroughly clean the inner wall of the pot, scald it with boiling water, or put it under the sun to bake, because if there happens to be fungi or bacteria in the pot and it is not cleaned thoroughly, it will cause root rot again. After repotting, do not rush to water. Let it rest for two or three hours, then water it thoroughly to settle the roots.

Then put it in a place with bright light, keep the potting soil moist, and let it recover. During the recovery process, be sure to remember to water thoroughly when the potting soil is almost dry, or water thoroughly when it is half dry. Ensure ventilation, and do not fertilize. Once you see the leaves clearly recover or obvious growth begins, return to normal watering care and fertilization.