How to know when to repot?

[mimigirl]

I see a lot of clay and ceramic pots that are for orchids and have hole around the sides. Do all orchids like this or does it depend on the orchid? Also i never know when to use bark as opposed to moss. Thanks for all comments.

[cbuchman]

I often add holes to my clay pots to promote even drying of the medium and air flow to the root area. Do be careful of pot with attached saucers, as many of these decorative pots have. Orchids sitting in a water is a recipe for root rot.

I do not pot in Sphag. I find it stays too wet and it decomposes into mush quickly. I do use it on mounts to help hold extra moisture. I am using Orchiata bark with added tree fern, charcoal and/or large perlite to help it stay airy. Since I have a tendency to over water, I've learned to pot in medium that doesn't retain too much water.

So you sort of need to figure out what works for you and your orchids. I have killed my fair share of plants learning. Don't be afraid to try something new.

[mimigirl]

Thanks Carrie! Good to now know name of a good potting medium. I try different things with my non-bloomers. I was thinking of switching to all orchid pots and am glad to know that you use them with success. I find it hard to follow advice on lighting. If i m getting blooms from cat, jewel, phal, paph and enc, (south eondow) then light should be sufficient for everyone. Thanks for your reply. Let me look online for your pot med.....