Transplanting an orchid: how and when to do it

When transplanting an orchid it is necessary to have a couple of basic knowledge for the process to be successful. We are going to teach you how to transplant an orchid correctly, how and when to do it , the materials to use and the steps.

In addition, in this article, you will also learn the steps to follow to transplant orchids with flowers to another container, larger or of a more suitable material, or to transplant them to a trunk.

When to transplant an orchid

Orchids are plants that do not usually need to be transplanted regularly, in fact, it is generally recommended to be done every two years maximum . There may also be other factors that indicate that your orchid needs a transplant :

  • When the container, pot, or flowerbed where the plant is located has become too small. If the roots of our plant begin to overflow too much it is an indication that the orchid will be better in a slightly looser space. Even so, it is good to remember that the more closed the place where it grows, the more abundant flowering will be.
  • When the substrate has compacted and does not drain optimally. This causes water retention to become more acute and parts of the plant to decompose due to continuous exposure to water.
  • When the plant is damaged by a possible plague or fungal infection. This event is easily recognizable since the roots have a brown or darker color than usual, in addition, their intense green leaves turn yellow. 

Do not forget that in case of transplanting an orchid it should be done when the plant is in a state of lethargy, just after flowering .

Transplanting an orchid: how and when to do it - When to transplant an orchid

How to transplant an orchid into a larger pot

Before transplanting the orchid it is important that the substrate of the plant is slightly moistened so that, when removing the roots, you avoid breakages and possible injuries. Both the tools used to carry out a light pruning of parts of the plant in poor condition, since we must take advantage of the time of transplantation to take care of this aspect, and the container where we are going to plant it must be clean and disinfected.  We also recommend that you use fungicides during this process to prevent possible diseases during transplantation.

To transplant an orchid into a larger pot because the current one is too small, follow these simple steps :

  1. Choose a container that is clear or allows the roots to easily catch sunlight for photosynthesis. There are pots for orchids that already incorporate a bottom to facilitate drainage.
  2. Place in the new pot pebbles or expanded ceramic balls that you can find in any garden. The rest must be covered with a special substrate for orchids, based on pine or fir, avoiding compacting it so that the roots can move freely.
  3. In the event that you have cut roots in poor condition, it is better to reserve the plant without watering it for a couple of days so that the wounds caused by pruning are closed to avoid infections.
  4. It is not advisable to use a lot of compost. It is best to allow time to pass before giving a more generous dose. Always use specific fertilizer for orchids.
  5. Place your orchid back near a bright area with a moderate temperature to facilitate growth.

How to transplant an orchid to a log

Another option to change a container or support orchid is to place it on the trunk of a tree, since these in nature grow on them. If in your house you have a garden or land with a tree, this can be a very creative way to decorate your outdoor area even more, offering the plant everything it needs to grow well. Transplanting an orchid to a trunk is very simple with these steps:

  1. Choose the trunk to which you are going to transplant the orchid. Avoid being old or resinous logs to protect it from toxic exudations and having abundant foliage to provide the shade it needs. It is very important that the orchids do not receive direct sunlight.
  2. Choose the type of orchid to transplant , but remember that not all are suitable for this type of transplant. The most used are the Phalaenopsis, Cattleyas, Vandas or Dendrobium among others.
  3. Use threads to attach the orchid to the trunk . Avoid using wire because when it oxidizes it would harm the plant.
  4. Add a little substrate to make it adhere more easily to the support you have created. Use a mesh or fabric net to place it.
  5. Water the roots of the orchid to make sure it is well hydrated. Perhaps being on the trunk the water it receives is not enough to keep the roots hydrated.
  6. Use fungicides and compost to improve its growth. Being planted on a trunk, it can generate its own diseases that, in turn, can infect the orchid. Observe that the roots are the correct color and that the leaves are not yellowish.
Transplanting an orchid: how and when to do it - How to transplant an orchid to a log

Transplanting orchids with flowers

Finally, if we have just bought our orchid and want to transplant it to a better pot still in full bloom , it is necessary to follow some guidelines:

  1. Remove all the substrate, that is, the pine bark, to remove the orchid very carefully.
  2. Place the flowering plant in the new container where you will need to add the new substrate.
  3. Make sure it has room for the roots to move freely but is securely supported.
  4. Use tutors to maintain the shape of the stems and help them support the weight of the flowers in this transplanting and adaptation process, as it is undoubtedly the most recommended option.
Transplanting an orchid: how and when to do it

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