Question
Hi, Jim.

I have two orchids.  When I received them, there were no blooms on the plant so I don't know what kind they are.  There are about 4 leaves on each of them.  I read some of your past answers and it looks like the orchids need to be repotted.  Can I use regular potting mix?  What else do I need to do to help revive the orchids?

Thanks.

Answer
Hi Sarah,

It would help to know what kind of orchids you have as that can make quite a difference in what you should use in repotting.  

With that said, I would not use regular potting mix to repot an orchid, regardless of what kind it might be.  The reason is that most orchids need some air circulating around their roots which means the mix should be somewhat open, regular potting mixes tend to compact with little or no air circulation.  This is not to say that it is not impossible to grow orchids in potting soil, but using it would require a better knowledge of how to properly water and how often given the water retention abilities of the soil.  

Look for an orchid mix that does not look like potting soil but one that is mostly bark.  Once potted, where and how to grow them would depend upon what kind of orchid they are.  With that said, it is possible to grow just about any orchid in bright shade under temperatures between 50F to 75F and humidity above 50%.  The problem arises if you want to have them bloom for you as orchids require varying differences of each.  

Sorry I couldn't be of more assistance.  If you find out what kind you have along with where you live, I can offer you better advice.  Until then, good luck with them.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.