How to transplant an orchid and take care of it so that it lives a long time

The orchids that are easily found on the market, including mini orchids, are of the genus Phalaenopsis. These plants must be transplanted regularly, since that it will prevent the substrate from rotting and damaging the roots. This is especially important for all old orchids that have flowered several times. But it is important to do it at the ideal time and in the right way to help them overcome the stress that this entails for the plant.

When are orchids transplanted?

Since orchids are stressed when they are transplanted, it is important to transplant them only every two or three years. So is finding the right time to transplant. Flowering orchids should not be transplanted, but only in the post-flowering phase and before new shoots grow.

Therefore, the best time to transplant is spring. During this time, the transplanted orchid can quickly recover from stress thanks to good light and higher temperatures.

How to transplant an orchid

Before transplanting it, water and care for the plant properly because growth slows down after transplanting: two days before put liquid compost in plenty of water.

If orchids are bathed in water before transplanting, the roots will soften and the plants will be easier to remove from the pot. Also, the roots will not split as easily.

The orchids they only have aerial roots, since in nature they grow mostly on other plants, for example, trees. For orchids to grow in pots, it is important to use the right pot and the right soil.

What pots should you use for transplanting?

Always use a transparent plastic pot, because the aerial roots of orchids need light. As orchids prefer small pots, it is enough that the new pot is between 2.5 cm and 5 cm larger than the old one.

What soil is suitable for transplanting orchids?

Normal substrate causes root rot. Orchids need a specific substrate, which is generally made up of peat, dry leaves, coconut bast, charcoal, moss or tree bark.

step by step instructions

1. Remove the old pot

First, the orchid is carefully removed from the old pot. Be careful not to damage the plant or the roots. To help loosen the roots, gently knead the container with your fingers. If the plant roots have already grown through the bottom of the pot, the pot can be carefully cut .

2. Remove the old substrate

Clean up the old substrate so that the roots are exposed. It is important not to damage the roots. To loosen the substrate, first gently shake the plant. Rinse the substrate that is still attached to the roots with lukewarm water.

3. Cut dead aerial roots

You can also remove any rotten or dry roots at this point so that the new roots have more room to grow. Always use very sharp shears when cutting. To avoid germs, you should sanitize the tool before cutting dry, dead roots. You can run a flame through the shears and allow them to cool. Be careful not to damage any of the green, healthy roots; the orchid needs them to grow. If the roots are damaged, seal the wound with sulfur or charcoal powder or a special caulking paste to prevent rotting. Take a good look at the aerial roots. If you discover pests, first place the plant in a water bath for a few hours before planting it in the fresh soil.

4. Plant the aerial roots

Pour a first layer of substrate in the new pot and plant the orchid by placing the root ends in the container and slowly turning them until all the aerial roots are inside. Be careful not to damage any blades. Now fill with fresh substrate from the sides. It is useful to hit the pot on a table so that the new substrate is better distributed. The spaces between the roots must be completely filled

Tips for care after transplant

After transplanting, you should not water your orchid for a week.ay do not fertilize it for about four weeksFor ideal care, mist the leaves with a little water every day during this time.

Orchid: how to divide and multiply it

The orchids of the genus Phalaenopsis they cannot be divided via root shoots. However, with good care, it can happen that the orchid itself develops small shoots, usually at the end of a discolored stem.

While the stem is still green, the sucker should remain on the mother plant. Only when the stem dries up can you transplant it. Since the small root is still very sensitive, you should consider the following:

Loosen the substrate by chipping it before transplanting.Keep your mini orchid moist spraying it, not watering it.Choose a bright and warm place, but without direct sunlight.Avoid changing location in the first months.