An Introduction to Potting Orchids

Orchids are traditionally separated into two principal types, epiphytal and terrestrial. The epiphytals are the orchids that grow on trees. There are several different methods for growing this type of orchid in the house or in greenhouses. It all begins with the potting.

In a state of nature, the epiphytal orchids typically have roots that are much more exposed to air as compared to other plants.  Therefore, by "potting" we do not mean to pack them all around with thick potting soil.  Rather, we want to place them in a pot with loose, organic matter, from which they can draw necessary nutrients, along with rocks or broken pottery bits to create open spaces and to assist the plants to stay upright.

The typical formula for potting material appropriate to epiphytals is 1 part sphagnum moss to 1 part peat moss. Place a layer of this material in the bottom of the pot, followed by a layer of rocks or pottery pieces, then a second layer of the compost, and so on. When the pot is around a quarter or at most a third full, carefully place your orchid's root system down into it. Then continue adding rocks and mix, packing all of this material just tight enough to support the plant.

Try to gradually build the mix until it is up to and even a little above the top of the pot. The height you need to go above the pot depends on the size of the pot as well as the depth to which you have placed the plant. The general rule is to allow the plant's crown to rest on top of the mix. By crown is meant that part of the orchid plant from where the roots begin.

If you are repotting your orchid, you have to take special care when taking it out of its previous pot. If there are any new roots clinging to the exterior of the pot, you should attempt to ease them off with a penknife. It there is a mass of vital roots -- meaning, roots that have sap in them -- attached to the inside of the pot, then you might have to break the pot and pick away all that you can. You might need to repot it with bits of the old pot still hanging on the roots, and this is fine.

It is a good idea not to water for a day or so before or immediately after potting this type of orchid.

This has been a general introduction to potting epiphytal type orchid plants. The subject can be more complex than this, particularly in the case of some of the more delicate or senstive species. Entire books have been printed on how to pot the various species of orchid plants!  Fortunately, most of us don't need books devoted entirely to the potting art in order to enjoy success with orchids. A recognized, comprehensive guide to all aspects of orchid growing is sufficient.

These days there exists lots of excellent, accurate information available for anyone who wishes to grow orchids. The most thorough guide to contemporary orchid care, many people are finding, is Orchid Care Expert by Nigel Howard, which is available to be downloaded over the Internet. Howard's well-written guide constitutes a comprehensive education all to itself. And, you will find it suitable for beginners as well as more experienced orchid growers. Also, be sure to visit the Orchid Secrets site, which contains a growing library of information on many topics of orchid care.