Question
Hi. I was wondering if you could tell me if it is safe to repot my orchid into a bigger pot as its roots are beginning to grow over the sides of the flower pot.

Answer
Hi Lorna,

You probably have a Phalaenopsis orchid. It is perfectly normal for its roots to grow over the sides of the pot. In nature, these Orchids do not grow in the ground. They grow up in trees with their unusual roots attached to the wet tree bark in tropical rain forests. Thus, their roots are adapted to being exposed to the air, but are not adapted to growing in soil. That is why as potted plants they are potted in bark chips or sphagnum moss.

After about 2 years the bark chips or sphagnum moss decompose enough that they need to be replaced, but often a larger pot is not necessary.

I have written an article on Orchid care that I will send to you (or anyone else) if you email a request to me at my address below.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]