Can I repot an orchid in flower?

Avoid it unless the roots are actively rotting. Most orchids drop their blooms within days of being repotted.

How big a pot should I use?

Same size or one size up. Orchids bloom better when slightly root-bound; oversized pots stay wet too long.

Should I cut off aerial roots when repotting?

No — they're healthy roots doing their job above the medium. Tuck what you can into the bark, leave the rest exposed.

May 6, 20266 min read

When to Repot an Orchid: Signs, Timing & Step-by-Step

Most orchids need repotting every 18–24 months. Doing it too often stresses the plant; waiting too long suffocates the roots. Here are the five clear signs it's time, plus the right way to do it.

5 signs your orchid needs repotting

1. The bark crumbles between your fingers — broken-down medium holds water like soil and rots roots.

2. Roots are climbing out the top or bottom of the pot in a tangled mess.

3. The medium stays soggy for days after watering, even though you're not overwatering.

4. There's a sour smell from the pot.

5. It's been more than 2 years since the last repot.

The best time of year to repot

Repot just after blooming, when fresh new roots (bright green tips) are starting to grow. Avoid repotting while the plant is in flower — you'll often lose the blooms.

Step-by-step: how to repot a Phalaenopsis

1. Soak the pot for 10 minutes to soften the medium and make roots flexible.

2. Slide the plant out and gently shake off all old bark.

3. With sterile scissors, trim every black, mushy, or hollow root. Keep firm white or green roots — even the long aerial ones.

4. Choose a pot one size up only if the root mass demands it; otherwise the same size is fine. Clear plastic orchid pots work best.

5. Hold the plant in the pot with the base of the lowest leaf at the rim. Pour fresh medium-grade orchid bark around the roots, tapping the pot to settle it.

6. Water lightly and place somewhere shaded for a week to recover. Resume normal watering after that.

What to use

Medium-grade orchid bark for Phalaenopsis and most epiphytic orchids. Add a handful of perlite or charcoal for extra drainage. Skip moss unless you're an experienced grower — it holds far more water than beginners expect.

Frequently asked questions

Can I repot an orchid in flower?: Avoid it unless the roots are actively rotting. Most orchids drop their blooms within days of being repotted.
How big a pot should I use?: Same size or one size up. Orchids bloom better when slightly root-bound; oversized pots stay wet too long.
Should I cut off aerial roots when repotting?: No — they're healthy roots doing their job above the medium. Tuck what you can into the bark, leave the rest exposed.