Repotting Phalaenopsis and Cymbidium: Mix, Pots, and Timing

The Ideal Orchid Potting Mix

• Medium fir bark (½-¾") + charcoal, perlite, tree fern.
• "Open" mix = rapid drainage + good root zone airflow.
• Available at Lowe's, Home Depot, garden centers.
• Avoid soil-like mixes—they cause root rot.

Critical Practices

• Repot annually after flowering—even best mix degrades to soil-like over time.
• Soak mix 1-2 hours before use—dry fir bark repels water.
• Use pots with many drainage holes—essential for drainage and aeration.

Where to Buy

Garden centers (Lowe's, Home Depot) carry hobby bags. Select coarse, bark-based mixes labeled for orchids.