i was also wondering how often i should change the orchid's bark. it seems as if the bark on the bottom of the pot is decomposing a little bit, but it generally all looks like its still intact. do i need to change the bark this spring? how long should i wait?
thank you for any answers =)How often should i change orchid bark?
Any time you purchase a new orchid, you should pop it out of it's pot and inspect the roots for health and bark for decomposition. If it is in bloom and the roots are firm and either white or tannin brown (from the bark), yet firm, you can wait until the flowers fade, then repot. If the roots are black, squishy, cut the flower stalk off and repot. Watering every two weeks may be o.k., but you should get used to the weight of the pot when dry and when wet to determine when to water. Most epiphytic orchids grown in bark need good air circulation around the roots and the bark needs to approach dry before watering again. When you water, do it heavily and allow the pot to drain. Orchids take their water and nutrients through the roots. The actual root is a thin wire like strand within the spongy outer coating called velamin. Velamin acts as a sponge to grab any and all moisture it can to hold for intake from the root. The roots cannot take water directly from their surroundings, therefore, a root that has lost it's velamin cannot function.
You should try to find out what general alliance the plant belongs to. You can get much info on its care if you know it's alliance. Orchids vary greatly in their needs depending on their alliance.How often should i change orchid bark?
Leave the bark alone! Move orchid to larger pot only when necessary. The roots will let you know when it becomes rootbound. Please note...most orchid's roots are holding plants in place only...never take the bark the roots are wrapped around out. You water orchids by misting them, for they take in water and food through the leaves and actually, when in bloom, from the flowers.
Good luck
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