OK to re-pot?

[fisher60]

I have a 6" plastic pot that is FULL with Cats. A couple of them have blooom stalks starting. It desperately needs re-potting. Is it OK to do it now without losing the bloom stalks? If it's OK, should I divide them up a little at the same time?

[Gin]

I would not if they have blooms started wait till they are done blooming and have new growths with new roots from the new growth it would be safe then to re-pot and divide . just my

[prc11]

I agree I would wait to repot until you see new roots forming. I always saved more plants repotting than not, however that my sacrifice the blooms at this point.

[fisher60]

Thanks Gin & prc11. This is my first Cat that I've gotten to re-bloom since I bought it. I've kind of figured it hasn't bloomed in the past because it's too crowded. There doesn't seem to be much potting medium in the pot. I've only just noticed this after peering thru the densely packed foliage. The plastic pot is not a clear see thru. Can I re-pot now and then divide later?

[prc11]

Well Orchids don't mind being crowded and I would just do both when you repot.

[Zoi2]

Unless the plant is doing poorly it is best not to repot untill after it blooms. Catts do not mind being crowded in the pot and usually grow best that way. The plant itself does not need potting medium, they grow on trees with their roots exposed, we (humans) use it for ease of care. As long as the potting medium is not foul you should be fine.
Just enjoy the blooms then you can think about repotting.
Joann

[RobS]

As Gin said best time is when there are new shoots and roots. This makes taking divisions a bit harder risk of damage.