Orchid Tips:

Store bought orchids are mostly sold in plastic pots.  While plastic is nonporous and requires less frequent watering, it will also keep the potting mix and roots moist longer, which can lead to root rot.  Move orchid into a clay pot once it's finished blooming.  The roots of an orchid potted in clay will dry out more quickly, reducing the danger of over-watering.

Why Repot?

Repotting an orchid is no more difficult than repotting any houseplant.  Most orchids are slow growers and only need repotting every 1-2 years. 

When/How to Repot?

If the bark pieces are much smaller than they were originally, the mix has broken down and should be replaced.  The best time to repot orchids is soon after flowering.

Knock the orchid out of its pot as carefully as possible cutting off any roots that look brown and rotten.  Choose a pot that's one size larger than the pot orchid came out of.  Next, add a layer of Schultz® Orchid Mix to the bottom of the pot.  (For best results, presoak mix for 24-48 hours, then drain well.)  Hold the orchid with one hand, adding more mix around its roots with the other, and gently firm the orchid in place as you go.

Soak the pot in a bowl for 15 minutes, and then let drain in the sink.  This will thoroughly wet the new potting medium.  Keep the repotted orchid in a spot out of the sun for the next week while it recovers from transplant shock.