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08-24-2007, 01:26 PM
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| Pots for Orchids? Hi, I bought myself a few young phals and hybrids, plus some that are in spike. I also have quite a big phal that I started out with. All the orchids are in the same size plastic pots, but the hybrids are in white opaque ones. the Phals in clear pots. So I'm wondering the following: is the size of the pot at that stage significant? Or the size of the pot static? Do Phal roots need light? Do the hybrid's roots need darkness? Is it OK to put the plastic pots into an overpot, and does this ideally need to have air holes at the bottom? The reason that I'm asking is that I happen to have a kiln, clay & glass and a few funky ideas that I always wanted to attempt, but so I don't want to end up making pots that are not perfect for the purpose =) thanks for any advice, Magpie      |
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08-24-2007, 01:56 PM
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| Hi and welcome Magpie! Many people like the clear pots because it makes it easy to see what is going on inside - such as condition of roots, does the plant need water, etc. At least for phals it seems the roots tend to stay contained a little better in the clear pots - I have recently potted a number of phals into clear pots that had tons of aerial roots going everywhere, so I'm anxious to confirm this with my own cultural practices. Many people place the potted up clear pots inside other decorative pots for displaying the plants during their blooming period. Another reason for doing this is because many types become top heavy and the heavier outside pot provides stability to keep the plant(s) from tipping over. In general most orchids want to stay in as small of pots that their roots will fit. Oversize pots tend to stay damp too long and potentially damage/rot roots. As the plant gets bigger, each time you upsize the root ball is placed in a pot that is just slightly larger than the roots. Of course many people just divide their orchids as they grow so they are actually downsizing pots - one medium to two smaller! In nature many orchids have their roots exposed to the natural daylight - so no, darkness is not necessary for most. I'd say go ahead and make some "funky" overpots and enjoy the process. Holes in the bottom or sides will not hurt, but will not be necessary as long as you thoroughly drain your inserted pot BEFORE placing it inside. Enjoy! mike |
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