Potting Orchids – Not A Mystery (but still important for blooming orchids)

Orchids are gorgeous flowers, and are moderately easy to take care of if you have a basic understanding of how to care for them. How you pot your orchid will help the plant maintain new growth and help it continue to bloom.

If you have to do something before the actual act – is that step one? If so – then, step 1 – do some research. Your type of orchid has its own special needs when it comes to potting material. It may need fir bark or some moss. Some species do well with coconut husk. Find out what your orchid needs and use that.

It is important that your potting material provide for air ventilation and that it gives some structure to the root system of your orchid.

Been to a rain forest recently? If so – you may have seen some orchids growing on the bark of the towering trees. The roots are open to the air and moisture of the rain forest. What you won’t see is the roots sitting in a puddle of water. Do not let your orchid roots sit in a puddle – make sure your pot has adequate drainage.

Plastic, clay, stone – oh my. Your choices of materials for pots is large. The material will determine how much you need to water your plant Consider that. Also – orchids need the support of tight soil packing. Make sure you do not get a pot that dwarfs the orchid – else you could have a hard time keeping the soil tight and the orchid happy.

Consider the growth rate of your orchid. You want to give it enough space for new growth over the next 2 years. Most of them grow slowly – so be careful with your estimate. Then – pick a pot you like enough to enjoy for the next 2 years.

The material does matter – clay will drain the water out (this is a good thing). Clay pots will require a more frequent watering schedule though. At least in comparison to a plastic pot.

Make sure that your pot has drainage holes because if the roots that are left in standing water will rot and die, which will cause the plant to also die. If you need to find out what type of material is best for your specific orchid – you can find out at Grow Great Orchids. You can also find some other useful orchid care tips here.

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Filed Under: Gardening
Tagged: care of orchids, caring for orchids, flowers, Gardening, growing orchids, home gardening, how to care for orchids, how to grow orchids, orchid gardens, plants, potting orchids

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