| Basic Repotting
& Dividing (continued)
Potting Mix
The potting mix is determined the size and type of orchid to be
grown. Phalaenopsis, Cattleya, Dendrobium and Vanda should be grown
in Medium Orchid Bark Mix. Paphiopedilum, Miltonia, Odontoglossums
and Oncidium need to be potted in Fine Orchid Bark Mix.
Disinfect the orchid bark mix with diluted Physan 20, prior to use.
Removal From Pot
Remove the plant from its pot. This should be done in a manner that
will cause the least trauma to the roots.
Shake off and remove all of the old bark from the root mass.
Sterilize Tools
To prevent the transmission of bacterial and viral infections, sterilize
the tools prior to use. Sterilize the cutting tools with Physan
20 or flame the tool with a blowtorch. Let the sterile tool cool
down before using it on the plant.
Trimming
Cut off all dead roots. Dead roots are hollow and soft. Healthy
roots are firm and creamy white. The live roots situated outside
the pot should be either cut back (Cattleya and sympodial orchids)
or retained (Phalaenopsis and monopodial orchids). The live roots
located inside the container are preserved.
Cut off any dry inflorescences and dead leaves. Remove any diseased
parts from the plant, if possible. Diseased parts are often soft
and dark brown or black in color. Paint the wounded area with Alitte.
Repotting
If no division is needed, place the plant to be repotted in a pot
that is slight larger than the preceding one.
Dividing
Sterilize the cutting tools with Physan 20 or flame the tool with
a blowtorch. Let the sterile tool cool down before using it on the
plant.
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