How to repot a moth orchid

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How to repot a moth orchid

BBC Gardeners' World Magazine

Published: Friday, 20 September 2019 at 3:56 pm

Find out how to repot a moth orchid with the help of our step-by-step guide.

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Orchids have acquired an undeserved reputation for being fussy and difficult to grow. This certainly isn't the case with moth orchids (Phalaenopsis). Though native to tropical jungles where they grow high up in trees, they make rewarding houseplants that can flower year round in the average home.

Watch Alan Titchmarsh's video guide to looking after orchids.

Moth orchids should only need repotting when they are about to burst out of their current pot. Choose a transparent pot, which permits the roots to photosynthesise.

Find out how to repot your moth orchid, below.

You Will Need

Moth orchid (Phalaenopsis)
Secateurs
Bark mixture or specialist orchid compost
Clear plastic pot

Total time: 15 minutes

Step 1

Cutting the orchid flower stem

After flowering is over, wait several weeks before cutting back the flower spike. When a green bud forms lower down, cut the stalk off just above it.

Step 2

Removing the moth orchid from its pot

Moth orchids can be repotted at any time of year. Soak the compost thoroughly and then tip the plant carefully out of the pot without breaking up the ball of the roots.

Step 3

Repotting the moth orchid

Use a clear plastic pot a size larger than the original, and special orchid compost. Put a little in the base, sit the plant inside and fill the gap around the edge.

Step 4

Trimming moth orchid roots

Most of the aerial roots should be coiled inside the new pot, but any that are too long or badly placed are best cut off cleanly to leave the plant looking tidy.

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