Cattleya Orchid Care: Tips on How to repot a Large Unruly Cattleya Orchid with lots of Roots - Summary

Summary

The video is a step-by-step guide on how to repot a Cattleya orchid. The host starts by removing old bloom spikes from the plant. He then explains the importance of timing the repotting correctly, ideally when

Facts

1. The video starts with the host welcoming viewers back to their channel and introducing the topic of the day, which is working with a Cataleya orchid and giving it a new pot.
2. The host begins by cutting off old bloom spikes on the orchid, a process that needs to be done before transplanting.
3. The host is filming in British Columbia early in the morning to avoid the sun's glare affecting the filming quality.
4. The host uses sterilized scissors to cut off the old spikes, which are old and spent. The host recommends cutting them about an inch up from the actual bulb to keep the plant clean and free from any potential hiding spots for critters.
5. The host explains that the perfect time to repot a Cataleya orchid is when a new pseudo bulb is starting to form, as the orchid grows roots once a year and only grows them on the newest pseudo bulb.
6. The host mentions that if the orchid is transplanted when the roots are too long, there's a chance of breaking them. Therefore, it's recommended to wait until the roots have a chance to break off naturally.
7. The host decides not to upsize the pot and instead keeps the orchid in the same pot for stability. The host also mentions that anything smaller than the current pot is likely to tip over.
8. The host then explains the process of removing the orchid from its old pot. The host kneads out the old media and trims the plant to remove any dead roots.
9. The host mentions that the old bark becomes acidic over time and can burn the roots, so it's best to get rid of most of the bark.
10. The host trims the dead roots before spraying the orchid with a hose to dislodge any dusty particles.
11. The host explains that the Cataleya orchid's old bulbs eventually wither and die, and new roots are coming in their place.
12. The host then moves on to the process of repotting the orchid. The host uses a mixture of medium fir bark and styrofoam for the new media.
13. The host explains that styrofoam is used instead of perlite because it has no water-holding capabilities and doesn't break down or hold bacteria like perlite does.
14. The host then explains the process of adding the new media to the pot, making sure to work it in between the roots and into the cracks and crevices.
15. The host finishes the process by watering the orchid and checking if anything packs down. If it does, the host uses the leftover media to fill it in and top it up a little bit more.
16. The host ends the video by thanking viewers for watching and inviting them to subscribe to their channel for more videos.