phalaenopsis should I repot

[erezo]

Hi,

I'm an orchid noob, so any help would be greatly appreciated.

Attached are the images of my phal. I bought it 3-4 months ago and it's nearing the end of it's bloom.

It's relatively larger than my 2 other phals, so should I repot it after it blooms? should I cut the spike leaving two nodes or down to its base (With my 2 smaller phals I cut to the base).

Thanks






orchid - Album on Imgur

[Dusty Ol' Man]

I would repot it with fresh medium and a pot better suited to root health. More drainage and more air flow. As for the spike, I never cut anything green.

[Roberta]

First, Welcome!

I agree. The medium actually looks pretty good - the large bark will drain well. But it would benefit by being in a better - and somewhat larger pot. Don't over-pot, though, you want just enough room for the roots. As for the old spike, I would also leave it - sometimes they produce a branch that can bloom some more, but it's hard to predict exactly where, so let the plant "decide". If it turns brown, then just cut it because it won't be doing anything for the plant... an old spike does no harm, just looks ugly.

[estación seca]

Welcome to the Orchid Board!

You've been taking good care of it.

[erezo]

Thanks very much for all the info

I'll repot and keep the spike then.

Sadly all orchid plastic pots around here look exactly the same. I'll try adding more holes (saw some youtube videos). Can you add some pictures or links of recommended pots? I can order through Amazon.

[Mountaineer370]

My personal preference is for slotted orchid pots with holes and/or slots on both the bottom and sides. It looks like there are many sizes and styles available from Amazon:

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Be forewarned, the downside to these is that most orchids will grow their roots through many of the slots and holes, necessitating carefully cutting the pot away when repotting time comes around. Still, you have the advantage of getting maximum airflow (short of a basket or mounting), as well as being able to see many of the roots easily to judge their health and when they need watering.

If you have a particularly nice plant in bloom and you want a prettier display, you could then drop the plastic pot into a more decorative outer pot during that time.

The orchid in your photos looks very healthy but may be outgrowing its pot. I'd probably go up a size. As to the spike, in most cases, I leave them until they start to turn brown.

P.S. I also meant to say welcome to the Orchid Board!

[estación seca]

I don't think you need more holes in the pot if the medium is well aerated. Especially if it's a clear pot, you can see the roots and wait to water until they turn from green to silvery.