Re-potting orchids.

Its that wonderful time of year when I start to realize just how many plants, specifically Orchids, that I have out in the garden ( Right here in Almonte) and sun-room growing like there is no tomorrow. Now that the nights have begum to get a bit cooler and before all the bugs decide to hide out in the rots, its time for me to start bringing the orchids in and re-potting them. The first thing to do is to get a good orchid bark ( we conveniently sell some in-store, Acanthus Floral) , I use just straight bark as I find moss holds onto water too much and can cause root rot. 

The first thing to do is to soak the bark in water for about 20 minutes, this prevents dry bark from sucking all the moisture out of the roots once you'v re-potted the plant. 
While the bark is soaking, you can cut off any finished flower stems ( never re-pot an orchid that is in bloom). Make sure to cut the stem right above the node ( little bump) that was closest to where the flowers were. 

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This way if the orchid if happy it may send out a side shoot of blooms where the cut was made.  Next step is to get a slightly bigger ( than what it was in) Terra cotta ( or plastic) pot, make sure it is clean and if its a terra cotta pot I suggest soaking or wetting it before placing the bark in. This will prevent the pot from taking all the moisture out of the bark. Now its time to ( carefully) take the orchid out of its existing pot and to shake off all the old potting medium. 

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If you see any old, mushy, or broken roots use a sharp pair of pruners (or scissors) and remove them. Next drain the water from the bark mixture and place a small amount in the bottom of the new pot. carefully begin to lower the roots into the pot. Once you have about a 1/4 of them in begin to back-fill with bark, then more roots, more bark until they are all nice and cozy in their now home. 

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Now a congratulations Is in order because you have  successfully (hopefully) repotted your orchid and it will be on its way to blooming again. If you do have trouble, or just prefer to keep your hands clean, you can always bring your orchids ( or any plant) into the shop, 14 Mill Street, Almonte,On.,  and we will gladly re-pot it for you.

Acanthus Is a custom florist and plant shop in Almonte, Ontario. Proudly serving Pakemham,Clayton,Blakeney,Carleton place, and all Lanark County.