How to Transplant Orchid Plants

When growing in the wild, the roots of orchids normally cling to the bark on the sides of trees or rocks on the ground. Growing orchids at home requires transplanting these exotic looking flowers every two to three years as they outgrow their containers. Watch your orchids for signs that it is time for them to be transplanted, such as the roots growing over the sides of the container and pale green foliage, then follow a few basic steps to keep your orchid thriving for another few years.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you’ll need:

• Plastic container
• Fir bark chips
• Clippers
• Watering can
• Spray bottle filled with water

1. Transplant orchids in the spring before new growth begins. Select a new container that is one large sizer than the original container.
2. Fill the new container with a 1-inch layer of gravel. Add fir bark chips to fill the container about halfway full.
3. Carefully remove the orchid from its original container. Gently brush off the roots to remove any bark or other potting materials. Remove old foliage and trim any roots that have become overgrown.
4. Add the orchid to the new container. Plant so the top of the crown is about 1 inch below the rim of the container.
5. Finish filling in the container with fir bark chips. Gently settle the bark chips down around the roots of the orchid as you fill the container. Fill clear to the top edge of the container.
6. Water the orchid every other day. For the first month, use a mixture of one part root stimulant and three parts water to help the roots become well established and stay healthy. After the first month, water once a week and mist three times weekly.
7. Feed the orchid plant with a fertilizer specifically designed for orchids. Use one that is higher in nitrogen, the first number on the fertilizer container, such as 30-10-10. More nitrogen is necessary for orchids growing in bark to promote good root and foliage growth. Fertilizer once a month according to the package directions.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a plastic container, as plastic tends to maintain moisture better than clay.