Re-potting - Orchid Board

mmorehead · #1 06-09-2009, 09:29 PM

After re-potting phalaenopsis, is there anything that needs to be done differently? I've read that they shouldn't be watered for a week (I re-potted in Miracle Grow Orchid Mix), and I've also read that they should be put in a dark place to encourage new root growth. Were these articles correct? I'm new at this and your insights are appreciated.

PitcherASAMD · #2 06-09-2009, 09:36 PM

I've heard from others on this forum that miracle grow orchid mix isnt the preferred medium as it breaks down very quickly. But do what works best for you! As for your second question, I'm not sure about putting it in a "dark place"; I think what they mean by that is shaded semi-sunny, not direct sun!
As far as water is concerned, because you have new bedding in with your plants, it might dry out quicker than your old substrate. I use bamboo skewers in my media and know I need to water when the skewer is almost dry i.e. not cold to the touch. Hope this helps! Again, I'm new at this too so hopefully others will chime in with their 2 cents!

Zoi2 · #3 06-09-2009, 09:52 PM

I agree.
Joann

PitcherASAMD · #4 06-09-2009, 09:56 PM

Also I forgot to add that if your phal isn't in a clear pot, then you might think about changing it into one. That way you can monitor the color of your roots. When they are silvery-green they are wet enough. When they turn white is when you want to think about giving them a good soak!
Katie

camille1585 · #5 06-10-2009, 02:52 AM

I usually put my freshly repotting phals back in their usual place. I do modify the watering a bit but I don't think it's something that has to be done. After watering them well after repotting, I usually keep them on the dry side for a few weeks. By dry, I mean that I'll wait an extra 2-3 days to water again. I read somewhere that this gives injured roots time to heal, and since the plant needs to search for its water a bit more, they tend to start growing roots. That's certainly what I've observed, but I don't know if it's linked to the watering or not!

RosieC · #6 06-10-2009, 08:00 AM

After previous problems with re-potting Phals, my latest one is doing OK.

I moved it back from the window it is usually in (about 2ft) and I have been watering less often like Camille says.

I don't know if that has anything to do with why this one is doing OK and previous attempt at repotting left me with sick plants... but as the plant is OK I'm going to do the same with the next one.

RosieC · #7 06-10-2009, 08:02 AM

I've also heard bad things about Miracle Grow medium, but I heard there were two types and the problem is when you get the wrong one.

One of them is more soil like and is intended for orchids which like that type of medium (not Phals).

The other is more chunky bark and people here on OB have said that works well for Phals.

I have no experience of this myself though so can only pass on what I have read.