For orchid lovers, the Dendrobium is easily a top-tier favorite. It’s famous for those stunning, showy blooms and is actually pretty low-maintenance compared to some of its finicky cousins. However, to keep your plant thriving and ensure it keeps producing those gorgeous flowers, you’ll need to repot it every two to three years. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to give your Dendrobium a fresh start.
Repotting Basics for Your Dendrobium
Wondering if it’s time for a move? Just take a quick look at the pot. If you see roots crawling out of every opening or spilling over the rim, your orchid is definitely ready for a bigger home. To keep your plant happy and prevent it from dropping its flowers due to stress, it’s best to wait until it has finished blooming before you start the process.
When it comes to the mix, you want something chunky and airy—a blend of pine bark and clay pebbles is usually the gold standard. Choose a new pot that’s only about an inch or two larger than the old one. Pro tip: Use a decorative planter with a built-in “step” or pedestal inside so excess water can drain away freely. This is the best way to avoid the dreaded root rot.
Step-by-Step: How to Repot Your Dendrobium Like a Pro
Follow these simple steps to successfully repot almost any Dendrobium variety:
- Give your orchid a good soak or watering before you start; this makes the roots more flexible and less likely to snap.
- Gently squeeze or “knead” the sides of the pot to loosen the plant.
- Carefully shake off the old bark, using your fingers or a gentle stream of water to remove any stubborn bits.
- Place a layer of clay pebbles at the bottom of the new pot to help with drainage.
- Center the root ball in the new pot on top of that drainage layer.
- Hold the plant steady with one hand while filling in the gaps with your fresh pine bark mix with the other.
- Give the pot a gentle shake or tap on the table to help the substrate settle into the nooks and crannies.
- Finish up by watering with room-temperature filtered water and giving the leaves a light, refreshing mist.
