Choosing the right orchid pot is very important for every orchid grower. Orchids pots can be a significant factor whether your orchid can thrive well and bloom with beautiful flowers. There are various types and sizes of pots which suit specific species of orchids. Some of these are made from plastic, clay ceramic and several other materials such as coir. Your orchid must grow in a pot which has enough size and space so that the roots can expand and grow healthily.
It can be confusing to select the right orchids pots. There are several factors involved in the selection process such as the watering needs of your orchid. You may want to buy a pot with an attractive color or design but you must prioritize the size of the pot and its drainage capabilities. Generally, it's best to choose the pot which offers the right advantages for the type of orchid you have.
To start off, it would be good to know the classification of orchid pots. Here are some basic descriptions of three different types of pots to help you decide which pot suits your orchid.
Plastic - Plastic pots are usually light and transparent. If you plan to put your orchid inside your house, a plastic pot may be more preferable. The advantage in using this pot is that you can easily see and observe the growth of roots and if they have any damages or pests. Furthermore, light can penetrate easily. Another advantage is the longer retention of moisture which is good for the plant. However, if you plan to place the pot outdoors, don't use plastic pots for your orchid since these pots are light and easily blown over especially on windy days. Be sure to choose a pot with holes at the bottom to facilitate proper drainage.
Terracotta Clay Pots - This is the best choice for orchids placed outdoors. Terracotta clay pots are heavier than plastic pots, hence they have more stability and are not easily blown over by the wind. Regular clay pots have one hole at the bottom but there are those which also have sidewall holes. Normally, orchids dry faster in clay pots than plastic pots. Moisture is good for your orchid but too much may kill it so clay pots offer just the balanced hydration. Although, a disadvantage of these pots is the tendency for accumulation of salts which block the holes. This may result to suffocation of roots if not enough oxygen is allowed into the pot. The salt may also be dangerous for the roots and may result to breakage or damage. Thus, it is imperative to check your pot regularly to see if there are any of these occurrences.
Baskets - Baskets are efficient to use for orchids that bloom with pendant flowers. Baskets are generally made from wood, mesh, plastic, or wire. The main advantage of this type of pot is the proper air circulation allowed for the plant. The disadvantage is the quick dry out of the potting mix. If you plan to use a basket for your orchid, make sure to water your orchid adequately and periodically check if the plant is moisturized to avoid thorough drying.
There are lots of choices for you when it comes to shape, color and sizes of these pots. You can buy pots online from reliable sites or you can just go to your local gardening store.
