Multiple orchids in one pot

[skabooya]

Ive been trying to find this information everywhere but i cant find it.
How can I successfully grow multiple orchids in a single pot? Ive already tried this once and it didnt work. My phals got very unhappy and i had to seperate them all.
Does anyone know how to do this long term and not just for show? Or can it not be done??

[Ellen]

You would probably be more successful growing multiple orchids of the same size and type (e.g., hybrid phals) together in one pot than mixing genera as is often done in the box stores. If you just like the appearance of multiple orchids in one pot, the best way to do it is to get a big pot and put all the smaller ones in it so that each plant has its own pot and hence its own customized care regimen. it's best not to cover the tops of the pots or fill in with moss. You want to be able to check the status of each individual pot.

[mayres]

Good suggestion Ellen - I recommend the same.....

[Fabolusus]

On ebay I have been seeing "orchid compots" for sale, apparently 5-15 small orchids planted in large pots. I can imagine what a great show they would put on if you could get them all to bloom at the same time!

[Cynthia, Prescott, AZ]

Compots are only used because the plants are too small to bother with separate pots. It is usual to separate them when they are of sufficient size for their own pot. Just remember that a large specimen plant or a pot of numerous plants together represent a problem when repotting. It is difficult to get old mix out and new mix in without everything falling apart or being able to get the new mix in among the roots.