How to repot a moth orchid

Watch Alan Titchmarsh's video guide to looking after orchids.

Moth orchids should only need repotting when they are about to burst out of their current pot. Choose a transparent pot, which permits the roots to photosynthesise.

Find out how to repot your moth orchid, below.

You Will Need

• Moth orchid (Phalaenopsis)
• Secateurs
• Bark mixture or specialist orchid compost
• Clear plastic pot

Total time: 15 minutes

Step 1

After flowering is over, wait several weeks before cutting back the flower spike. When a green bud forms lower down, cut the stalk off just above it.

Step 2

Moth orchids can be repotted at any time of year. Soak the compost thoroughly and then tip the plant carefully out of the pot without breaking up the ball of the roots.

Step 3

Use a clear plastic pot a size larger than the original, and special orchid compost. Put a little in the base, sit the plant inside and fill the gap around the edge.

Step 4

Most of the aerial roots should be coiled inside the new pot, but any that are too long or badly placed are best cut off cleanly to leave the plant looking tidy.