Phal has overgrown ceramic pot- break it or let it ride

[Roberta]

Originally Posted by SouthPark

If possible ----- get the longest nose heavy-duty tin snips one can find, and just very carefully begin to nibble away at the roots or bark etc around the rim of the pot. No excessive force to be used - to avoid cracking the pot.

Slowly and careful excavation should win out in the end.

Why remove it and risk breaking good, growing roots? Just remove old bark that is easy to remove, and enjoy a "mounted" plant. It's a happy plant living in a rather tropical climate.

[SouthPark]

Originally Posted by Roberta

Why remove it and risk breaking good, growing roots? Just remove old bark that is easy to remove, and enjoy a "mounted" plant. It's a happy plant living in a rather tropical climate.

That idea was only related to cases where the grower really wants to remove the plant and a fair portion of roots from the pot without damaging the pot .... and the plant can still survive too.

The O.P. mentioned that the orchid is firmly stuck in the pot, and I think mentioned that even soaking wouldn't help get it out.