Easy Tips For Repotting Orchids

Repotting orchids is one of the basic requirements for this plant to grow and thrive. Knowing why you repot an orchid, when to repot and the basic steps to repot will ensure a healthy, blooming orchid for many years to come.

Here are the optimal times to repot the 9 easiest to grow orchids out there.

1. Phalaenopsis "moth orchid". The best time to repot is spring and summer. Water them weekly or every other week. They are need low, medium to bright light.

2. Dendrobium. The best repotting time for the plant is spring. Water them weekly or every other week. They thrive best in temperatures from 50 to 70F.

3. Oncidium. Repot these in later winter to early spring. Water weekly or every other week. Feed this plant with orchid fertilizer monthly.

4. Cymbidium. The best time to repot is spring. They do best in bright lighting and temperatures from 50 to 75F.

5. Paphiopedilum. Known as 'lady slippers" repot best during the spring months. You want to water them once per week.

6. Ludisia. Called the "jewel orchid", needs repotting during late winter and early spring. Let this plant dry out before watering. Water it at least once a week or once every two weeks.

7. Encyclia "Cockleshell Orchid". Repot during the spring months. Fertilize it once a month and give it low to bright light.

8. Odontoglossum. Repot during the late winter and early spring months. They thrive in medium or bright light and temperatures from 50 to 70F.

9. Cattleya. Repot this orchid during late spring and early fall. Water this plant once a week or two weeks and give it medium to bright light.

Although these are general guidelines, when to repot your orchid will also depend on the environment, the condition of the potting medium and the condition of the orchid itself.

Generally it is time to repot when the medium has become soggy or broken down, the plant has outgrown its pot, and when the orchid has started producing new growth but before it has fully bloomed.

Knowing these guidelines and repotting your orchid will ensure a healthy and blooming plant for many years to come.

Joshua Bell is and orchid expert. For more information on orchids repotting [http://www.orchidcareclassroom.com/orchids-repotting], visit [http://www.orchidcareclassroom.com]