Top heavy orchid

[Leafmite]

This is one of the advantages of using red lava rock as a potting medium. Even when I use NZ sphagnum moss, on the bottom of the pot is a nice dose of red lava rock. I like using basket/net pots and they are incredibly light and easy to knock over. I do have a few orchids in other mediums but I hang these so knocking them over isn't a problem.
Good luck!

[Cym Ladye]

Be careful which red lava rock you use, as some will attract calcium and other minerals if you do not have water very low in salts. Within a year the rock will become so toxic to the roots of an orchid that they will die when they come in contact them.

Baskets and cachepots are the recommended way to go with a top heavy plant. Cachepots are particularly attractive in the house because of their decorative nature.

CL

[Fuzzy]

Thanks, everyone! At first I didn't want to put it in a decorative pot because that would defeat the purpose of having a clear pot so the roots can use light and photosynthesize. But after reading everyone's responses I went ahead and put the orchid in the clear pot into a shorter clay pot. it is now secure and half the clear pot is still able to get some light. This should work for now, and once it's done blooming I will cut the spike back and it should be fine in the clear pot once again. Thanks all!

[mimigirl]

I am starting to use clay orchid pots. The bottom seems a little wider and more stable.

[cbuchman]

Originally Posted by mimigirl

I am starting to use clay orchid pots. The bottom seems a little wider and more stable.

I also use clay pots, not only for stability but for "breathing". Water evaporates through the clay which helps the medium dry out faster and the evaporation helps keep the root cool. Sometimes, i make additional holes in the sides of the pots with a masonry bit & drill or enlarge the bottom hole for additional aeration. A win-win-win!