TheNaturePlanet

Generally speaking, when a Phalaenopsis orchid’s condition suddenly declines, aside from improper daily care, the cause may also be compacted potting medium. The media commonly used for orchids include sphagnum moss and bark. When sphagnum moss loses aeration, it can easily become moldy and foul-smelling, which in turn affects the roots and may cause root rot. If bark decomposes, you may see small white spots—these are mold colonies. Once they infect the roots, diseases can develop and threaten the orchid’s survival.

Regardless of the specific problem, if you inspect the roots and find rot, dead roots, dryness, or mold, it is recommended to repot the orchid immediately. Repotting involves several important steps.

1. Choose the Right Pot
Before starting, prepare your materials. Select a suitable pot—preferably a clear plastic pot or an unglazed clay pot—about 5 cm larger than the original pot. Avoid pots that are too big or too small. Ensure good drainage by choosing a pot with multiple bottom holes; if there are too few holes, you can add more using a hot tool. This will allow excess water to drain away after watering, reducing the risk of root rot.

2. Prepare and Disinfect the Potting Medium
The growing medium is equally important. Whether you are using sphagnum moss or bark, disinfect it beforehand—either by scalding it with boiling water or soaking it in a specialized horticultural solution. When mixing media, a recommended ratio is about 70% new sphagnum moss to 30% bark, which balances breathability with moisture retention.

3. Handle and Trim the Roots
After removing the orchid from its old pot, gently shake off the old media clinging to the roots. Inspect the root system carefully. If you find roots that are black, soft, or hollow, trim them off immediately with sterilized scissors, leaving only plump, bright green, healthy roots. If the roots are densely packed like a tangled mass, gently tease apart the outer roots to loosen them slightly. This helps the new potting mix make better contact with the roots, allowing the orchid to adapt more quickly to its new environment.

In short, repotting is not a difficult task as long as you are careful with cleaning and disinfection. Proper preparation will help your Phalaenopsis recover faster and continue to thrive.