Phalaenopsis Question. Returning to orchids.

[Arizona Jeanie]

Everyone has their favorites, here's mine. As my tiny phals grew, I potted them out of plastic pots and into baskets from the local hydroponics store. The roots can go out the sides and wave around some, and don't get that cramped-in-the-bottom-of-the-pot look. A few roots grow out, down, and into the saucer, so I can leave a bit of water in the saucer when the weather's very hot and dry. This keeps the plant hydrated without the bark in the pot staying too wet. I always put a few river-run granite rocks in the pot, both to force the roots out from the very center, and to provide some counter-weight to the top.
I've been happy with potting medium from repotme.com, I know it's more expensive and the shipping is ridiculous, but I only have a few plants and it works for me. They were also the very first on-line orchid information and supply site that I found, I still appreciate that early advice.
Find what works for you, and what you like to look at!

[camille1585]

You could also stick in in a heavy decorative cache pot since it doesn't look pot bound,, that's my usual method for top heavy Phals. You can consider a heavy glass one so that light still gets to the roots. Dutch love stuff like that so they are easy to find here, not sure about elsewhere.

[greenpassion]

Wow! You got lucky picking something like that up from Walmart! It's really gorgeous. Don't know if it was mentioned before but Kelly's Corners orchids is a good place online to buy supplies for orchids. Good luck!

[collectorinfl]

Thanks so much everyone! I have learned a lot just in these few posts.


oh and someone else likes my orchid...(see attached photo).

[Roberta]

When you repot your orchid be careful of your little guest! (maybe do it in a wide container, not just on newspaper, so that you can rescue your little friend.) So cute!

[greenpassion]

That is so cute! Wild I'm guessing? How many?

[collectorinfl]

Thank you!

Wild I'm guessing? How many?

Yes and we have dozens living on our (VERY small) back patio. I also have some desert roses, ponytail palms, segoes, succulents, catus, etc. The frogs & lizards think it's heaven.

[greenpassion]

It sounds like heaven to me! Absolutely🤗

[reptilegrrl]

I have phal envy! I bought one with 10 leaves at the grocery store but it has declined a lot since I brought it home, I truly wish to have one like yours!

If it's top-heavy you can always put it into a large pot to help anchor it. If the media is airy it should be ok. I have phals in an assortment of media to compare and my best-doing one is in growstones with a little sprinkle of seramis. It has new roots and a new leaf growing, plus healthy older roots.

[estación seca]

Welcome to the Orchid Board!