when to repot phaleneopsis

[nadia]

Hello everyone,

I have a question regarding when to repot phaleneopsis. I have a phaleneopsis which is actively blooming (it has two spikes, each with three flowers and a secondary spike with more buds) but it has many aerial roots that are coming out. I find that the plant looks crowded and I think it needs to be repotted. However, I am hesitating because of the flowers and I do not want to loose the buds. Has anyone had any experience with a similar problem?? I am curious to know if repotting poses a risk to the buds or if waiting for the flowering period to be over is a greater risk to the plant?? As additional info, I just bought this plant 6 months ago... it is still in the original pot from the store....and it has been flowering since!!!

Thank You

Nadia

[mayres]

I wouldn't be in any hurry to repot. It is perfectly normal to have lots of aerial roots - these plants grow naturally in trees with no pots or media, so they are frequently sending out roots - "looking" for tree bark to attach to. Pot size should be kept as small as the roots will all fit. When the media starts to break down - become spongy, compacted, etc. it is time to repot. Phals are one kind of orchid that could be repotted pretty much any time if you so choose - without harmful effect. Nearly all phals can be left in their original purchased containers for a year or longer. I like to repot mine after blooming - just because I like a particular type of media and also like to inspect all the roots to see what condition they are in and "doctor" if/when necessary. Enjoy - mike