When and How to Repot a Dendrobium Orchid (Step-by-Step Guide)

# When and How to Repot a Dendrobium Orchid (Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Understanding the Dendrobium Orchid’s Needs

Dendrobium orchids are epiphytic plants, meaning they naturally grow on trees or rocks rather than in soil. Their roots require excellent air circulation and drainage to thrive. Repotting is essential when the growing medium breaks down or the plant outgrows its container. From the plant’s perspective, repotting is stressful but necessary for continued health and growth.

2. When to Repot a Dendrobium Orchid

The best time to repot a Dendrobium orchid is after flowering, typically in spring or early summer when new growth begins. Signs that repotting is needed include:

• Overgrown roots: Roots spilling out of the pot or circling tightly.
• Degraded medium: The potting mix (e.g., bark or sphagnum moss) has decomposed, retaining too much moisture.
• Poor health: Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or root rot indicate the need for fresh medium.

3. Preparing for Repotting

Gather the following materials to minimize stress on the plant:

• New pot: Slightly larger than the current one, with drainage holes (clay or plastic).
• Fresh potting mix: Coarse bark, perlite, or sphagnum moss for epiphytic orchids.
• Sterilized tools: Pruners or scissors to trim dead roots.
• Water: To hydrate the plant before and after repotting.

4. Step-by-Step Repotting Process

Step 1: Hydrate the Orchid
Water the plant a day before repotting to reduce transplant shock and make roots more pliable.

Step 2: Remove the Orchid from Its Pot
Gently tilt the pot and ease the plant out. If roots are stuck, soak the pot in water to loosen them.

Step 3: Inspect and Trim Roots
Shake off old medium and examine roots. Cut away any black, mushy, or dead roots with sterilized tools. Healthy roots are firm and white or green.

Step 4: Prepare the New Pot
Place a layer of fresh potting mix at the bottom. Position the orchid in the center, spreading roots evenly.

Step 5: Add Fresh Medium
Fill around the roots with the new mix, gently pressing to stabilize the plant. Avoid burying the rhizome (base of the stems).

Step 6: Water Lightly
Moisten the medium to help settle it. Avoid overwatering, as fresh bark retains less moisture initially.

5. Post-Repotting Care

Place the repotted orchid in a shaded, humid spot for 1–2 weeks to recover. Resume normal care (bright indirect light, regular watering) once new growth appears. Avoid fertilizing for the first month to prevent root burn.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure the orchid’s well-being, avoid:

• Overpotting: A pot too large retains excess moisture, risking root rot.
• Damaging healthy roots: Handle roots carefully to avoid unnecessary stress.
• Using soil: Dendrobiums require airy, well-draining media, not traditional soil.