- When does a Phalaenopsis need to be repotted?
- What should I consider when repotting?
- The right substrate for butterfly orchids
The Phalaenopsis, also known as the butterfly orchid, does not need too much care. However, their demands on the location and the quality of the irrigation water are not low. From time to time it should be repotted.
The butterfly orchid should be repotted every two years
When does a Phalaenopsis need to be repotted?
In principle, the Phalaenopsis only needs to be repotted if the old pot is too small, provided it is supplied with sufficient nutrients in the form of high-quality fertilizer. However, you should also pay attention to the condition or the consistency of the substrate. If it is used up or hardens, then it must be replaced. It makes sense to repot about every two years.
What should I consider when repotting?
If the pot of your Phalaenopsis has become too small, then choose the new one that is only slightly larger. Carefully remove the plant from the old pot and check the roots for any rot. Cut off soft and rotten root parts with a clean knife. After repotting, place the plant back in its usual location.
A very important point is the care of the newly repotted Phalaenopsis. It should NOT be watered in the first few days. This also applies to the usual casting. It is better to spray the orchid and the fresh substrate with lukewarm water. Only when your Phalaenopsis begins to form new leaves do you start watering again as usual.
The right substrate for butterfly orchids
A Phalaenopsis may react sensitively to a change in substrate or composition. If possible, always use the same mixture. Special orchid soil is best suited, even if the name is a bit misleading. Orchids don't grow in the ground, so they don't thrive in commercially available potting soil either.
The essentials in brief:
- repot about every 2 years
- choose a new pot of the same size or slightly larger
- always use the same substrate if possible
- suitable substrate: commercially available orchid soil, mixture of peat, bark and coconut fibres
tips
About every two years, your Phalaenopsis needs new substrate and possibly a larger pot.