Why Repot an Orchid: Orchids should be repotted every 12-18 months to replace the bark, which over time breaks down and begins to hold too much water. Repotting will rejuvenate the orchid and encourage vigorous growth and re-blooming. What You Will Need: In addition to Orchid Focus Repotting Mix , you will also need scissors or a scalpel or sharp knife and a clear container of the appropriate size. Clear pots support root photosynthesis and make it easier to see if water is needed. When to Repot an Orchid: The best time to repot Phalaenopsis is in spring or fall; it is best to avoid the height of summer. Avoid repotting when the plant is in bloom. How to Plant a Phalaenopsis Orchid Prepare the orchid by watering it the day before or soaking it briefly before repotting it, this way the orchid will come loose easily and the old potting soil will be easily removed. Squeeze and bend the old pot so you can easily remove the orchid. Carefully remove the old bark and loosen the roots. Rinse gently in cool water, this will help wash away the old bark. Remove any dead or damaged roots and dead flower stems with a sterile knife or scissors. Trim any long roots to about 15cm. (6"). You will need a new pot that is larger than the old one, or if you have to use a pot of the same size, you will need to remove a lot of roots. Place a thin layer of new soil in the bottom of the new pot. Lower the roots into the pot, holding the orchid in the center of the pot with one hand (the roots should be below the rim of the pot), filling the spaces around the roots with new soil. Holding the orchid in place, add more soil and shake the pot to make sure all empty spaces are filled with the new soil. Spray the plant and the top of the bark with "Orchid Myst" or water. This will reduce moisture loss through the leaves. Give the plant a few days to allow any damaged or injured roots to heal, then resume normal watering.
