On 04/01/2011 14:15, Adrian Brentnall wrote:
HI All

We have a number of orchids that my wife works very hard to pamper g

Some of the look as if they could/should be potted on into larger pots -
but they are currently in the semi-transparent pots that they came in.

Is it important that they be repotted into transparent pots, or will
the common-or-garden brown or black plastic variety suit ?
Transparent pots in larger sizes seem hard to get hold of out here in
the wilds of south-west Ireland ...

Thanks
Adrian


They *can* be grown in ordinary plastic pots or even clay pots, the
latter esp if good grainage is required. However, I have never felt
really happy about any of these and *always* transplant my orchids into
clear pots. In these, I can see root development and judge water
requirement. Also, if a tall flower spike appears and needs supporting,
I can watch the progress of a cane being pushed into the growing medium
and thus avoid damaging roots. Also, some orchid roots are able to make
use of the light available to them between the clear pot and its
decorative pot cover. To me, clear pots have clear advantages. I buy
them whenever I see them, not just when I need them. With tiny plants
or keikis (baby orchids), I use those small plastic tumblers sold for
parties, having made huge holes in the base and sides. When I see small
enough clear pots, I shall buy a few. I note that you have difficulty
sourcing bigger pots, and wonder just how big you need. My biggest pot
is 18.5cm (made by Stewarts). I only rarely need bigger than that.
Alas, those clear-ish buckets that fatballs come in aren't really deep
enough. Most frustrating!

It is more difficult to answer your other potting question without
knowing the type of orchid or seeing its root growth. If you can see
the roots well enough, you can probably tell if they're running out of
space and compost. Sometimes, an orchid can be repotted into the same
pot after completely renewing the compost. Generally, though, I find
mine need potting up a size. Phalaenopsis tend to be this latter type,
because they make such thick roots. My Oncidiums and so-called Cambria
types (still trying to identify some of them!) need less potting on
because their roots are so slender and seem slower growing.

--
Spider
from high ground in SE London
gardening on clay