Emergency potting

[Hummer344]

I found that the squirrles had knocked over and unpotted one of my phal's. (it needed to be re-potted anyway). The problem is two fold: 1. I don't know how long the plant roots have been exposed to the air. Probably most of the day. & 2. I had no potting mix wet.

The roots looked healthy on the plant so I took it, wet down some potting mix and put the plant in the mix so both would bet a good wetting. Question is: how long can I leave the plant submerged in this environment? It will take several hours to get the potting mix wet through and through & best left over night. I don't think that will be good for the plant. Suggestions please
Thanks
David

[robb]

i am sure the phal will be just fine. i have not presoaked my mix (Schultz orchid mix) when repotting, my plants are all ok after one or two waterings. i would suggest not altering your watering schedule (if any).

cheers, and take heart, phals are quite robust!

[jbigio]

It should be fine remember they grow in tree!

[PhalPal]

I have left phals out of media with roots exposed for three-four days at a time. I just mist them a few times a day without letting them sit in water. Prep your mix the way you like, take your time, and re-pot it like you normally would.

Like jbigio says, orchids grow attached to objects in the wild. The media is for our convenience, not the plants!

[Lilrocorchids]

When I know I will be potting alot of plants like in spring ,I soak bark overnite . when I run out and need more quickly I soak bark in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes it helps it absorb the moisture . Rinse before using don't cook your plants .
Rocco

[Hummer344]

Its done. I ran out and re-potted the little darling after dinner last night. Put it in a protected spot and will hope for the best. Always a little something to keep life intresting

Never Test the Water with both Feet.

[jbigio]

Good luck keep us posted