Repotting question for Encyclia bractescens

[Connie Star]

The Encyclia bractescens is in a tiny 2" thumb pot that it seems to be getting too big for. The medium seems tired out- the general directions for Encyclias say to underpot in clay and let it almost dry. Well, it seems to be dry a few hours after I water it. It is growing a new pseudobulb and seems healthy. Advice on repotting??? Would it be good for mounting?

[Izzie]

No tips, but good luck with the cutie patootie!
Funny how a bunch of leaves can still be cute.
"you know you're an orchid enthusiast when..."

[gnathaniel]

Hi Connie, bractescens should do very well mounted, I haven't grown it that way but I've seen nice ones grown by other people on mounts.

I have mine in a 4" wooden basket filled with sphagnum and coarse LECA. It's in a bright SW window and gets cool at night (low 50's) in the winter, when I also keep it fairly dry. This time of year I try to water and fertilize just after it dries out and so far it seems pretty happy. Good luck, these make lovely specimens when they get big!

--Nat

[Royal]

If the medium is old, repotting may perk it up. Mine is in a clay pot with fir bark mix, but mounting would definitely be an option. It looks happy and healthy, I'd just try to change out the medium and stick with what appears to be working for you.