I'm new and need help!

[greeneyedgirl]

Hi!

I was given this plant at a garage sale a couple of weeks ago. I've been watering it and decided I should probably repot it. I was told it might be an orchid. Well, I don't know anything about repotting or growing these. The roots are showing. What do I need to do?

Thanks for any and all help!

[Lilavati]

That's definately an orchid. Its almost certainly a Phalaenopsis. (Phalaenopsis - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)

They are really common and easy to care for!

[priz_m]

That is very much a phalaenopsis, take a look at this page for the repotting instructions:

Easy Orchids - Re Potting A Phalaenopsis

Don't over water it though, they don't appreciate to be soaking wet

[Ross]

I agree with the others, and I love the fact you have it in a clear pot. I see green roots. That means wait a bit before rewatering. I like to see white roots (well, the tips will stay green) before I rewater. Also, I see water beads on the inside of the pot. Sure singn there is sufficient moisture for current roots. You are doing really well with this plant and I'd just use the indicators above to determine when you should water again. Just my 2 cents.

Oops, as for roots showing, that's no problem. This guy grows in trees in it's native habitat where all the roots are "showing". The purpose of the bark mix is to hold some moisture for a few days till the plant needs water again. Don't worry. It looks just great, to me.

[Royal]

Yup, Ross' advice is good. Water when it's dry. When dry, the roots will look whitish. When wet, they turn green.

The condition of the potting medium is questionable. If it has started to break down, you may want to re-pot. If it looks like it's in good shape, don't mess with it. It looks like a very happy plant. Nice growing, and welcome!