Potting Orchids - A preview into baskets

Pots are the number one prerequisite for potting orchids and there a lot of pots to choose from. It may seem as a surprise but some of the well orchid pots are not pots but are baskets. One example of an orchid that is typically grown in wooden baskets is the Vandana. These baskets come in a lot of shapes and sizes and the materials that they are made from are very varied. Baskets are immensely popular among orchid growers who are into growing orchids that survive on aerated conditions..

Orchids that flourish on baskets
Orchids that are suitable for the basket pots include the Cattleya and the Bee. These two orchids plants produce bloom gorgeous flowers during certain seasons every year. Basket type orchids usually grow upright and require a lot of circulation on the roots area.. On the other hand, orchids that grow on trees will mostly choose this surroundings compared to a restrictive pot that holds in moisture.

Understanding the root system
When potting orchids, the root system of your orchid plant is an area that you really need to explore and appreciate. Eventually, the roots of your orchid will grown and hang down through the basket. Dampen the roots with sprinkles of water each day instead of cutting them. The roots will aid in sustaining the entire orchid plant and help them produce breathtaking blooms each year.

Factors to be considered
All pots are unique and the manner by which you deal with them varies. Despite the difference, you still need to monitor the watering situations diligently. Basket pots faciliate quicker drying compared to other pots. This is mainly due to the air circulation so it is very important that you monitor the moisture levels.

Enough support
Basket type orchids needs more care and support than the ones in pots. Not to be biased but orchids that developed in baskets tend to be more exposed than the one grown in plastic or clay pots. They need more support to grow appropriately.

Repotting

Orchids that are planted in baskets can pose to be a problem when being repotted. The roots that grow can become entangled and it can be burden to separate them. It is because of this reason that you need to make sure that you carefully and gently work on the root system each time you repot an orchid planted in a basket pot. Patience is a virtue and the roots will eventually become loose if you work with them long enough.

Potting orchids is only hard if you let it be. The choice of what pot to choose whether clay, plastic or basket really depends on the kind of orchid you want to grow. As always, when in doubt it is always best to talk to someone who has experience.