Can I use normal potting mix for orchids?
No. Most orchids (especially the common epiphytic types like Phalaenopsis, Cattleya, Vanda, Oncidium) will not thrive in regular potting soil because it retains too much moisture, compacts around roots, and prevents the airflow their roots need. Use a growing medium formulated for orchids or appropriate alternatives. Is it crowded in there? While orchids prefer a small pot—weaving their roots through the compost as they grow—they eventually run out of room. That’s when their roots push the plant up above the rim of the pot or reach out into the air, looking for breathing space—a sure sign that it’s time to re-pot.Over-watering is the most common problem associated with poorly performing orchids. Symptoms can look very similar to those of under-watered plants because it often rots the roots and therefore prevents them from taking up adequate amounts of water.Many orchids prefer the shallower bulb or azalea pots to the taller standard sized pots.watering orchids based on their roots velamen color indicates water needs: dry velamen is white or silvery; freshly watered velamen is green or mottled. Orchids can be watered from the top or bottom. Mounted plants will need more water than unmounted plants.Wrong Potting Mix “Orchids need air circulation around their roots,” Kondrat explains. They don’t want to be sitting in water-logged soil. Kondrat also cautions against putting orchids in pure sphagnum moss because it holds too much water.
Is Miracle-Gro ok for orchids?
Caring for orchids does not have to be complicated! Just use Miracle-Gro® Ready-to-Use Orchid Plant Food Mist. This easy-to-use fertilizer spray provides your orchid with the nutrition it needs to thrive. To water, just plunge the whole pot in tepid water for 10 seconds once the large fleshy roots have turned silver. This is enough to turn the roots green again. All orchids can be watered in this manner – wait until they are slightly dry.Orchid roots like air and will rot if kept soggy and wet. Once home, plants should be carefully removed from pots and plastic liners along with any moss (image 1).If your plant is in healthy condition, mix a small amount of plant foodwith water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Soak your bare-rooted orchid in this solution for approximately 15 minutes before you repot to help generate new root growth.Clear pots encourage root photosynthesis and healthy growth. Filtered light enters the root ball and mimics natural growing conditions. The pathogens that can cause illness in orchids are extremely sensitive.