Illustrated Guide on How to Repot an Orchid

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Many people don’t realize that repotting orchids is a very necessary thing to do in order for your plant to remain healthy!  In this post I show you exactly how to repot an orchid.

Most people don’t realize that they need to repot, let alone know how to repot an orchid.  Let me subtly say…YOU NEED TO.  Keep reading, and I will show you a pictorial overview on how to repot orchids at home.  

In specific, how to repot Phalaenopsis orchids in bark. Whether your moth orchid is growing in a bark mix or in sphagnum moss, it will need to be repotted every year or two. 

I personally don’t do it every year.  Every other year would be a good rule of thumb.  But never repotting is not an option!

Why Repot Your Moth Orchid?

Why do you need to repot your moth orchid?  Well, the potting medium will start to break down and the orchid roots will not be able to get the air and nutrients they need.

Remember, moth orchids are epiphytes, meaning they grow ON other plants like trees in nature and they have a lot of air circulation. Another reason to repot is that fertilizer salts will build up in the potting medium and orchid roots are very sensitive to that.

How to Repot an Orchid

The best time to repot a moth orchid is right after it is done flowering and you cut the bloom spike off.  In order to repot your moth orchid, you’ll need a few supplies:  potting media (I usually use a bark mix instead of sphagnum moss), clean pots, a bucket, and scissors. 

In the photo above, I have used the Hoffman Special Orchid Mix as the potting medium for my moth orchids. I found that the bark chunks are too big for my climate. It would be more suitable for greenhouse growing or if you live in a humid climate.

My favorite mix that I have found is the Treehouse mix from Oh Happy Plants. It has a wonderful balance of moisture retention, yet has excellent drainage at the same time. I’ve repotted many of my Phalaenopsis orchids to this mix and they are loving it!

Repotting in Orchid Bark

The first thing you need to do is to dump the bark mix into a bucket of water and soak in hot water. 

Let the bark mix soak for about a half hour.  The reason you want to do this is so you can properly hydrate the bark so it will more easily accept water. The bark needs some help to get started.

If you want to learn all about how to get your orchid to rebloom reliably and have healthy, thriving moth orchid plants, don’t miss my signature, online orchid care course, Become an Orchid Master. It also includes bonuses with support from me, personally, to guide you in your orchid journey!

Clean Up Your Roots

As your bark mix is soaking, gently take your orchid out of its pot, remove all the bark off the roots carefully, and you’ll need to cut off any dead roots.

And don’t worry!  You are not harming your plant!  Orchids are tough.  Tougher than you think. Notice in the picture above, I’ve already cleared out all the old bark, and I’m cutting off the dead roots.  

Take a pair of scissors (preferably sterilized with alcohol or in a flame), and cut off any dead roots.  

You’ll know they’re dead because they may be hollow or squishy, or maybe they are completely dried up.  The roots that are alive will be firm and plump.

Place Your Orchid In a New Pot

Next, take your orchid that you’ve cleaned up and select a pot just big enough that the roots fit in.  I ordered some clear orchid pots on Amazon.

I like clear plastic pots because I can easily look at the roots and monitor the health of the root system.  You can quickly see if anything is going wrong.

In the picture above, I carefully placed my orchid in the pot.  Try not and harm any of the roots, but it’s no big deal if you do.  As long as the majority of them are unharmed.

After this, take the bark mix that has been soaking in the hot water for half hour, scoop some with your hand, and place it in the pot a little at a time.  

You’re going to have to gently use your fingers to pack the bark mix in the pot.  Sometimes I use a thin bamboo stick to push the bark mix in.  Just be gentle and try not and break any roots.  

Move as much bark as you can fit in between all the roots.  If needed, before you put the plant in the pot, you can put some bark mix at the bottom too if there is room.  Just make sure the plant is stable and not coming out of the pot.

And voila!  You’ve now repotted your orchid.  Give your orchid a good soaking of water in your sink, and place it back on your window.  

I also repotted a small mini-cattleya orchid (pictured in the middle above). Lastly, slip your plastic pot inside a more decorative pot to add your finishing touch.  Now let nature do its thing!

One important note to keep in mind is that many bark mixes are very dry, and after you repot, you may need to adjust your watering and water more frequently than you used to for maybe 2-3 months. After that time, your bark mix should be accepting water a little better. This is particularly important if you are moving away from a moisture retentive medium (like sphagnum moss) and repotting into a bark mix.

If you’d rather watch a video on how to do this, I created a YouTube video where I also include additional tips! Take a look!

For more information on how to care for your moth orchid, you can read my general growing tips on moth orchids, and also read about how to care for your orchid after it is done blooming.

Lastly, my eBook, Moth Orchid Mastery, has helped thousands of people with orchid culture.  It contains practically all my knowledge on moth orchids, and I know that it will make you a successful grower! 

Do you have any moth orchids at home? Comment below!