Suggestions on how to moisten bark after repotting w/o soaking beforehand

[SakuraDrops]

Hello all,

I recently repotted a few of my Phals in some aerated pots with orchiata bark. However, I made the mistake of not soaking the bark beforehand, and now I am having trouble keeping the bark slightly damp/moist. What can I do to solve this problem without completely repotting the plant itself? I did try dunking yesterday, but I did not really soak them in water for long..I was afraid of overwatering. Any advice is appreciated. Thank you!! ❤️

Pics: Medium soak suggestions - Album on Imgur

[estación seca]

When you water, it's fine to put the pot in a bowl or sink and soak it in deep water for many hours. Some people do this overnight. If temperatures are correct this is fine. I wouldn't do it when it's cold.

[fishmom]

Even with soaking, that bark is going to dry out more quickly than whatever the plant was in before. Just keep up with your frequent watering and they will be fine. If you used chunky bark, you can't overwater. Occasional soaking will be great for the plants.

[SakuraDrops]

Thank you!!!

[Mountaineer370]

I've used a certain premium brand of bark for many years. I've never actually made a habit of pre-soaking, but the last couple times I've bought it, I've noticed it is no longer as clean and dust-free as it used to be. So I do give it a thorough rinsing, multiple cycles of putting it in a big bowl, filling it with water, then dumping it in a colander and using the spray nozzle from the kitchen sink to rinse a little more. I don't think that's what others here refer to as soaking, but I get it pretty wet.

I don't believe any harm will incur if you forgot to do the pre-soak or rinsing. As others have mentioned, though, and I totally agree, using large chunky bark is going to require frequent watering. How often will depend on a number of factors, some that are particular to your growing conditions, but don't be afraid to water three, four times a week for a start. Especially if this plant was previously potted in a more water-retentive media, such as sphagnum moss, or a finer mix of some sort. You'll start to learn by the weight of the pot and the color of the roots when it needs water.

Can I ask where you got the pot? I use clear plastic pots with holes or slots in them, not just on the bottom but on the sides, too. Almost all of my Phals need repotting, and I need a supply of new pots.

[SakuraDrops]

Originally Posted by Mountaineer370

I've used a certain premium brand of bark for many years. I've never actually made a habit of pre-soaking, but the last couple times I've bought it, I've noticed it is no longer as clean and dust-free as it used to be. So I do give it a thorough rinsing, multiple cycles of putting it in a big bowl, filling it with water, then dumping it in a colander and using the spray nozzle from the kitchen sink to rinse a little more. I don't think that's what others here refer to as soaking, but I get it pretty wet.

I don't believe any harm will incur if you forgot to do the pre-soak or rinsing. As others have mentioned, though, and I totally agree, using large chunky bark is going to require frequent watering. How often will depend on a number of factors, some that are particular to your growing conditions, but don't be afraid to water three, four times a week for a start. Especially if this plant was previously potted in a more water-retentive media, such as sphagnum moss, or a finer mix of some sort. You'll start to learn by the weight of the pot and the color of the roots when it needs water.

Can I ask where you got the pot? I use clear plastic pots with holes or slots in them, not just on the bottom but on the sides, too. Almost all of my Phals need repotting, and I need a supply of new pots.

Thank you Cheri for so many details!!
Sure thing! The pots are located here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B3WYJN3Q...E70W23HMXCJF3A

[Mountaineer370]

Thank you! I see that they offer larger size pots, too, which is what I need. Many of mine have outgrown their 6-inch pots. I've browsed on Amazon and had not yet come across those. Thanks for the link.