What kind of container is best for orchids?

When growing orchids in containers, be sure to select pots with 4 to 12 drainage holes. Most orchids do prefer shallower squat pots, as their roots don’t like all the moisture retained in deep pots and they just don’t need the depth anyway as their roots spread out, not down.

Can orchids grow without soil?

Orchids can and do grow without soil. They need a small amount of soil to germinate in, but as they mature they need less and less soil. In their native habitat, orchids are air plants. This means they root in very little soil, often on tree limbs, and get most of what they need from the air.

Does an orchid have to be in a clear pot?

The main reason clear plastic is the number one choice for orchids is because sunlight can penetrate the pot, and orchid roots can aid in photosynthesis along with the leaves. Clear plastic not only helps the orchid, it aids the grower, too. In most household plants, you can judge the orchid by the leaves.

Do orchids like to be root bound?

Repotting Orchids Although orchids enjoy being root-bound, they’ll need to be repotted when the potting mix has broken down, usually every two years. Choose a time after the orchid has finished blooming; flowers could fall because of the stress of repotting. The pot should just accommodate the root mass.

Can I repot my orchid when it is in bloom?

Orchids make the perfect houseplants — they’re stylish, long-lasting and easy to care for. They’ll continue to bloom for years with minimal effort. Orchids generally need to be repotted once a year. The best time to repot is just after flowering, or when new growth appears.

Can orchids grow in ceramic pots?

From plastic to mesh to ceramic and terra-cotta, orchid pots are made out of all kinds of material. As long as the pot has many drainage holes, it is likely a good pot for growing orchids. There are some advantages to different types of material.

Where is the best place to put an orchid in your house?

Most Orchids are grown best in indirect, bright light, placing the orchid pots near a north-facing window may not provide them with enough light so try to place them near a near a south or east-facing window in your living room to ensure that they receive the right amount and intensity of sunlight to bloom.

Can you grow an orchid from a flower?

It can grow from a flower spike or at the base of the orchid (aka “Basal keiki”). Keikis grow their own leaves and roots. And a ‘keiki’ is simply just a clone of the orchid that’s growing it – it IS that same orchid. Often times struggling orchids can grow keikis – it’s their way to survive, to keep living.

Do orchids like big or small pots?

Most orchids require a 4, 5 or 6 inch pot. There are seedlings and miniatures that require smaller pots, older specimen plants and some genera (Cymbidium, Phaius, large Cattleya…) that often require 8 inch pots or bigger but the majority of orchids sold in groceries, box stores, florists and the like are not these.

What is the lifespan of an orchid plant?

Orchid plants do not have a finite life span, but after 15 to 20 years, the plants will naturally become weaker, producing fewer blossoms. Plants have a natural immune system, and over time it becomes worn down by natural bacteria and fungi. Repot orchids regularly, once every two or three years, to prevent disease.