The plant is growing over the edge of the pot. If the bulk of the plant is leaning way over the edge, it needs more space. The bottom leaves are falling off. [2] X Expert Source Harmony CorelitzPlant Specialist Expert Interview. 4 December 2020.
Most common orchids will do well with this mixture:[4] X Research source 4 parts fir bark or coconut husks 1 part medium charcoal 1 part perlite If you’re not sure exactly what kind of orchid you have, packaged potting mix for orchids is a safe bet for most epiphytic orchids. It’s available at many nurseries and home and garden centers. If you have a terrestrial orchid, you’ll need soil that is crumbly and retains water well. It should have a high content of perlite and wood matter. Ask at your local nursery for the particular mix that’s right for your orchid genus.
Some orchid species have roots that can photosynthesize. If you have a Phalaenopsis, consider getting a clear glass or plastic pot to let the sunlight in. If you need to choose a pot that’s on the larger side, you might want to add some broken terra cotta chips to the bottom of the pot. This will help the potting material in the middle of the pot, which tends to stay wet, drain more effectively.
You can sterilize your trimming tools by wiping them with rubbing alcohol on a rag.
Roots that are soft and limp are probably dead, so go ahead and remove them. Untangle the roots carefully by easing them apart with your fingers.
It helps to pour in just a little potting mix at a time. Work that around the roots with your fingers, then pour in more mix and keep going. Continue pressing in the mix until it’s level with the top of the pot.
