By purchasing one of the most exquisite plants, an orchid, you can be sure that this miracle of nature will delight you with its unusual flowers for quite some time. However, no matter how sad, and this beauty will fade over time. But so that in the future this magnificent plant could decorate your apartment, you need to create proper living conditions for it, and also know how and when to transplant the orchid correctly. In general, the methods for transplanting and caring for most types of these flowers are the same. The differences can only be in the selection of capacity and constituent components of the substrate.
Do I need to transplant an orchid?
Orchid transplantation is not so frequent, but very necessary. It is after transplanting and changing the substrate that the plant receives a new impetus for healthy growth. If you do not know when to transplant an orchid, it is better to consult with specialists in the store about this when buying a plant. Substrate change is a prerequisite for transplantation, since over time decomposition and grinding of the old substrate occurs, it settles and becomes denser. Because of all this, the irrigation regime is violated, as a result of which the roots of the plant are damaged. Small particles of soil (mainly a pine bark), creating a dense layer, begin to retain moisture longer, and if you maintain the usual watering regime, the roots of the orchid can simply rot.
When to transplant an orchid?
The interval between orchid transplants is largely dependent on the substrate used. It should be borne in mind that the destruction of coconut chips occurs slowly, mixtures from sphagnum are somewhat faster, and pieces of pine bark are destroyed quite quickly. Therefore, one way or another, orchid transplantation is carried out regularly. If you have recently purchased a blooming orchid, wait until the flowering period ends, and then you can no longer guess when to transplant the orchid. Do it right away. Just do not forget to check the condition of the root system of the "beginner" and, if necessary, treat it. If you already have a collection of orchids, then it is recommended to transplant all plants into the same substrate, as this will allow you to establish a single watering regime.
Transplantation of “centenarians”
The optimal time for transplantation
your orchid centenarians is the period when the plant has already blossomed and entered a new phase of intensive growth. Usually these processes begin in the spring, when the orchid has fresh leaves, roots or pseudobulbs. In addition, do not think about when to transplant an orchid, if your plant is infected with parasites. In this case, the old substrate is completely removed, the roots of the plant must be carefully examined and all “invaders” removed. Transplantation is carried out in a new container and in a fresh substrate. Also, transplantation cannot be dispensed with in case of sudden wilting of the plant. Do not be afraid to transplant a diseased plant, causing it stress, because if you leave the orchid in the same conditions, it can simply die, and it will have a chance for recovery.