When the plant grows to the edge of the pot, the roots that hang down are vulnerable to damage and are watered less. The roots on my plants that are growing out of the pot get less water because there is less time for the spongy root covering to absorb water and therefore nutrients. The roots under the media soak in moisture much more rapidly than the roots hanging down on the outside of the pot. When the plant is finally repotted it becomes difficult to pot it into a pot that is small enough to accomodate two years new growth. It then is usually potted into too large a pot which invites root problems. The best time to repot an orchid is when the new growth has started putting out roots. In catts that is normally when the newest pbulbs have matured and right before or during the point where the new buds are starting to grow. When the new roots are 1-2 inches long, repot. Most bark mixes are starting to degrade by two years and should be replaced. Repotting allows the plant a better environment and placement within that environment.
---------- Post added at 05:39 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:34 PM ----------
Also by cutting only halfway through the rizome, that doesn't impede the flow of nutrients and water through the rizome system. It only stimulates a reaction in the plant to put out buds from the back bulbs. It has no impact on health of the plant nor numbers of flowers. If you look at the nurseries on the net (easier than going to one near you) like Sunset Valley or SBOE or Hausermans, you'll notice the blooming size plants have only a few pbulbs yet have large flowers and/or numerous flowers per spike. If your culture is correct you'll be able to get the most out of your plant.
Last edited by james mickelso; 02-27-2013 at 06:43 PM..
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