Question
I bought an orchid from my local nursery this weekend.  With it I bought an orchid pot, pebbles for the saucer, and orchid food.  I would like to re-pot my Phalaenopsis.  It currently has several blooms and buds so I don't want to disturb the plant if it's doing well.  When can I transfer the orchid from the plastic container to the orchid pot?

Will the orchid get enough drainage in the plastic container?

Do you recommend charcoal along with bark as a potting medium?  

Any other tips for a newcomer?

Answer
Susie, you would be right not to repot while the plant is in flower or bud. As soon as the buds have all opened and the flowers have all fallen, you can repot. The ideal orchid pot should have several good size drainage in the bottom.  It is usually a good idea  if the mix contains 20-25% charcoal and about the same amount of perlite. The balance would be fir bark or a combination of fir bark and tree fern.  If you purchase a commercially prepared orchid potting mix, it is likely to have most of these ingredients in the correct proportion.  Whether prepared or purchased, make sure that all of the fine, dust-like particles are sifted out and soak the mix for at least an hour before use.  Be sure to check the orchid roots before repotting and remove any mushy or collapsed roots.

The nice thing about growing orchid is that there is always more to learn.  Feel free to ask any questions as you move along.  Welcome to the world of orchids.