Pitifully, the flowerless stalks soar skyward above limp leaves and withered bulbs. Orchids with this appearance will get you moving again with a targeted feel-good program. Using the example of the universally popular Phalaenopsis, we will explain here how you can revitalize sluggish orchids.
Repotting is good for orchids
Repotting makes tired orchids perk up - this is how it works
The orchid soil is exhausted no later than 3 years after purchase. The organic components have decomposed, so that unnecessary pressure is now being exerted on the aerial roots. The shedding of the flowers and wrinkled, limp leaves indicate the problem. Other causes, such as dryness or waterlogging, are also cured by this measure. Here's how to do it:
- Submerge the root ball in soft water to soften the root strands
- Then repot the orchid to completely remove the old substrate
- Cut off dried, dead aerial roots and bulbs with a clean knife
- Create a 2 cm high drainage made of expanded clay (19.73€) in the new culture pot
- Fill in some fresh orchid soil
With a twist of the wrist you pot the orchid and fill in the remaining substrate. A Phalaenopsis does not want to be poured or dipped immediately. Instead, spray the plant daily with lime-free water for the first few days after repotting.
This care releases fresh floral powers
Once the butterfly orchid has recovered from the stress of repotting, adopt the following care regimen to encourage renewed flowering:
- Dive into soft, lukewarm water once or twice a week in summer, less frequently in winter
- Mist daily with a gentle mist of lime-free water
- Fertilize with liquid orchid fertilizer every 4 weeks from April to September/October
- Protect from direct sunlight on the south window
Phalaenopsis and other types of orchids can be encouraged to sprout freshly by lowering the temperature. For this purpose, the plants take a bright location with temperatures not exceeding 16 degrees Celsius for 4 to 6 weeks.
tips
No matter how tired your orchids may appear; Please do not cut off as long as there are still green leaves, shoots and aerial roots. Only when a part of the plant is completely dead can it be cut off.