Step-by-Step Phalaenopsis Repotting Guide for Beginners

A new grower fears they're killing their orchids and asks how to know if repotting was done correctly.

Repotting Procedure

1. Supplies: New plastic pot with many drainage holes; commercial orchid potting mix (fir bark based). Soak mix while prepping.
2. Unpot: Remove old mix; discard it.
3. Root triage: Cut away mushy or stringy roots. Healthy roots = firm, turn green when wet.
4. Pot up: Place healthy roots in clean pot. Add wet mix a handful at a time, tapping pot to settle mix around roots. Fill to ~1" below rim; plant base level with mix surface.
5. Drain: Work where excess water can drain freely. Let drain fully.
6. Aftercare: Wait ~1 week before returning to growing area. Water weekly. After ~1 month, begin feeding at ¼ tsp/gal.

Key Tips

• Repot each plant individually.
• Expect 1+ months before visible new growth.
• East-facing window is ideal.
• Never let pot stand in water.