Mtssa. Charles M. Fitch Repotting
 

I bought a Mtssa. Charles M. Fitch last august and it bloomed in September of 2019. I’ve kept it in it’s original pot and it’s been pretty healthy. I haven’t had any new blooms this year which I’m a little sad about but I’ve had lots of new roots and bulbs growing.


The roots are growing outside the pot and it looks like a great new root system (as far as I can tell. Again, I’m new to this). The roots are only growing on one side where the new growth is while there are some yellowing leaves on the old side.

I’m thinking about repotting it as it’s growing over the side and causing it to tilt. Is this a good idea? I’ve bought some orchid bark and also the better gro special orchid mix for oncidiums but I’m at a loss at to what exactly to do.

Yes, repot when it's making new roots. They only make roots from the newest growth. Use whatever medium you prefer that fits your schedule. They don't like drying out. They only flower from the newest growths, so don't give up.

Thank you. I’m going to take the plunge and do it today. I’ve mixed the two mediums and gave them a spritz with hydrogen peroxide. Read that can kill any unwanted friends. I’ve heard of boiling or baking your bark. Is that a necessary thing? I’ve been avoiding repotting due to my fear of making the wrong move and killing it.

If it's new bark dry in the bag, you can put it in a colander and pour boiling water over it. The premixed stuff probably was somewhat moist?

You don't need to spray new medium with anything. It's impossible to sterilize medium without an autoclave or pressure cooker. There are very many beneficial organisms in all growing environments that help keep pathogens in check. Spraying may kill these. It is far more likely preventive spraying is harmful long term.