Heather N. Kolich, ANR Agent, UGA Extension Forsyth County
First, I filled a tub with orchid bark potting mix and water, allowing the bark to become saturated before adding it to the new pot. The chunky size of the bark allows for good drainage and plenty of air around the roots. Then I removed the orchid from the tiny container. The roots had spiraled around inside the container.
There were several desiccated or dead root portions, which I snipped off with sharp scissors. The old potting mix was compressed around the plant, so I carefully removed it. Orchids need air circulation around their roots.
I snipped off the spent bloom spikes to make room for new ones to grow.
I added the moistened bark mix to the bottom of the pot, then spread the orchid’s roots, fitted it into the pot, and continued adding bark mix, leaving an inch between the top of the bark mix and the top of the pot.
My repotted rescue orchid in its new home.