TheNaturePlanet

Friends who grow Phalaenopsis must have encountered the need to repot their plants. Common questions include: how to handle the plant after repotting, whether it needs sun-drying, and for how long.

Never sun-dry Phalaenopsis directly after repotting! Its roots are not as tough as those of other plants—they are white, tender, and transparent aerial roots. Direct sunlight causes rapid water loss, making the roots prone to shriveling and withering, which harms the plant.

If repotting is for pot replacement and the roots are in good condition, there’s generally no need for intentional sun-drying. Place the plant in a well-ventilated, bright area without direct sunlight for 1–2 hours. Once the root surface is slightly dry (not sticky to the touch), it can be repotted.
If repotting is due to root rot, allow more drying time after trimming the rotten roots. Typically, air-dry the plant in a cool, ventilated spot for 2–3 hours to let the pruning wounds slightly heal and dry, reducing infection risks. Avoid over-drying, as prolonged water deprivation makes it difficult for roots to acclimate to the new pot.
How to Handle Phalaenopsis Immediately After Repotting
Remove old substrate gently and inspect the roots carefully after repotting. Healthy roots are white, tender, and flexible. If roots appear yellow, black, or mushy, they are damaged and need urgent treatment. Cut off all rotten parts until healthy tissue is exposed—do not hesitate to prune thoroughly.
Disinfect roots after pruning. Prepare a basin of carbendazim solution (diluted as per instructions) and soak the roots for 15–20 minutes. Potassium permanganate solution can be used as an alternative. After disinfection, remove the plant and air-dry the surface moisture in a cool, ventilated area.
Choose breathable substrates like a mix of bark, sphagnum moss, and coconut coir. Avoid ordinary garden soil, which easily suffocates roots. Select pots with good air permeability, such as plastic root-control pots or ceramic pots, ensuring multiple drainage holes at the bottom.
Repotting steps:
Line the pot bottom with a layer of substrate.
Place the Phalaenopsis in the pot, adjust its position, then gradually add substrate while gently compacting to ensure roots adhere to the substrate. Do not over-compact to maintain airflow.
If using sphagnum moss, soak it, squeeze out excess water, wrap it around the roots, and then plant in the pot.
Post-repotting care: Do not water immediately. Place the plant in a cool, ventilated area with diffused light for seedling recovery. After 3–5 days, water thoroughly. Avoid fertilizing or moving the plant frequently during this period. Resume normal care once new roots emerge and the plant stabilizes.

Key points for post-repotting care: Avoid direct sunlight, disinfect thoroughly, and allow slow seedling recovery. With proper handling, the Phalaenopsis will quickly regain vitality after recovery and bloom beautifully again!