Did I overpot my phal?

[zxyqu]

4 or 5" pot shouldn't matter too much if you're careful watering. Actually, if you want to cut down on the amount of sphag used, you can always put in several styrofoam peanuts from the packing store at the bottom of each pot. This way, there is less sphag to get wet and hold water, but also, it really helps with drainage. Just my 2 cents though, but it really helps me out, especially in my growing conditions in winter.

[WhiteRabbit]

Everyone, please remember to play nicely with each other, even when we disagree. Thank you.

[Orchid126]

The pot sounds like it may be slightly too large, but if you use the skewer and are careful not to water too often you should be fine. Better to err on the side of caution. The saying is that you can't water an orchid enough, but you can water an orchid too often.

[WhiteRabbit]

I agree with the others, I think it should be ok, just be careful with watering. Using a skewer is always helpful. As Tucker says, also, in a clear pot, you can judge by the color of the roots.

[Gage]

If you feel it could be put in a smaller pot, I would repot again, being careful not to do any unnecessary damage. You are going to be the one watering it for the next year or two, so I would make it easier on yourself and repot. And put white styrofoam peanuts in any larger spaces in the pot.

[Stitzelweller]

Originally Posted by Arenalbotanicalgarden

A pot that isn't slotted is unsuitable for orchids..........unless you have a greenhouse. Even then, they're a poor choice.

oh, wow....Thanks for that timely tip! I've been successfully growing orchids for nearly 35 years. Only some of my plants are housed in slotted clay pots!