How to Repot Orchids

The orchid family consists of more than 30,000 species and encompasses a vast array of colors and sizes. Jeff Britt, orchid expert and president of the Rod McLellan Company, explains the importance of repotting orchids every two years or so.

Over time the growing medium tends to get soft and spongy; it holds water too long and prevents the orchid's roots from drying sufficiently between waterings. Refreshing the medium helps the roots remain healthy. A good time to repot orchids is just after they finish blooming.

Materials:

• potting bark
• clippers

Steps:

1. Hold the plant firmly at its base and pull it from the pot.
2. Replace the old bark or growing medium. Use clippers to trim the tips of roots that appear unhealthy. (Since orchids prefer a snug fit in the pot, they don't always require transplanting to a larger container.)
3. Holding the plant so the base of the leaves are almost at the top of the pot, gently push the new bark around the roots, making sure to press down firmly to eliminate air pockets.
4. Give the orchid a good soak and continue to water and fertilize as usual.

Guests
Jeff Britt
President, Rod McLellan Orchid Company
914 S. Claremont
San Mateo, CA 94402
Phone: 650-871-5655
Toll Free Phone: 800-237-4089
Fax: 650-373-3913
URL: www.rodmclellan.com
Also in this Episode

Grow It! : Episode GRW-209
•	Artful Garden
•	How to Repot Orchids
•	Gardening Q & A: How to Prune Rhododendrons
•	Q&A: Planting
•	Q&A: Starting Bulbs
•	Making Potpourri