Any orchid fan can confirm that orchids are one of the prettiest flowers you can have in your home and garden.
They’re not difficult to find in stores or gardening centers; however, their upkeep is a bit delicate and not as straightforward as with other types of flowers.
Additionally, it’s essential to provide the orchids with proper care and maintain their healthy roots through regular watering, adequate lighting, and the use of the right potting mix.
One of the key rules to remember about orchids is to never plant them in regular potting soil, as this can be fatal to them.
The best potting soil mixes for orchids are not made of soil but contain a mixture of different ingredients that replicate the natural environment in which orchids grow.
If this sounds too complicated, don’t worry because we’ve got you covered! To help you choose the right potting mix, we prepared an extensive list of the best potting mixes for orchids, and we’re sure you’ll find the right one.
Top Pick
Our top pick is the awesome PERFECT PLANTS’ All Natural Orchid Potting Mix. It works perfectly with your Vanda plants, providing the necessary drainage and retaining moisture.
This natural product will make your orchids thrive in no time.
Budget Pick
For a more affordable option, check out the Better GRO Potting Mix by Sun Bulb. It comes in affordable packaging. It’s made of sphagnum moss that prevents bacteria.
Thanks to its absorbing features it’s great for orchids.
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When to Repot Orchids?
When it comes to repotting orchids, there are a few key steps to follow.
First, if the orchid has outgrown its container, it’s time to move. Usually, you can notice this if the roots are starting to grow over the stem or the sides of the container.
Also, don’t forget that the potting mix is the source of nutrients for the orchid, and if you notice it has gone bad, then you should consider repotting.
It’s recommended that you repot the orchid every year or every other year; however, if you notice any changes and decay earlier, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Moreover, if you notice an odor around your orchid, it may be a sign of root rot due to improper drainage; in this case, it’s time to change the potting mix.
Additionally, keep in mind that different types of orchids can be repotted during different seasons; therefore, ensure you treat them separately when it comes to repotting processes.
In most cases, you shouldn’t repot orchids when flowering.
How to Re-Pot An Orchid?
When repotting an orchid, it’s essential to consider a few things. First and foremost, consider the type of container you will use – ideally, it should be larger in diameter than the old one, not excessively so, but an inch or two will suffice.
Moreover, some containers are specifically designed for orchids and feature holes on their surface. These holes allow air to circulate around the roots and ensure proper water drainage.
Orchids are very delicate flowers, so when taking them out of the container, be gentle and careful, and always check the condition of the roots. Ensure you cut away any damaged roots, then place the orchid in the potting mix and add sufficient soil around the roots.
What are The Different Orchid Potting Media?
As we mentioned in our review section, and you probably know, there are different types of orchids. And while some of them can grow in soil, others require a different soil medium, like the ones we presented.
One of the most important features of a good potting soil mix for orchids is aeration, which provides sufficient space for the roots to breathe and develop.
Fir bark
One of the most commonly used ingredients in orchid potting mixes is fir bark. This ingredient can be of 3 types, i.e., thick, medium, and fine bark. The fine fir bark can hold moisture for longer, and it works great with young orchid flowers.
The coarser the bark, the faster it can dry, allowing more air to pass through. When using fir bark, ensure you select the appropriate type based on the specific orchid. For instance, larger orchids require 1-inch fir bark, medium-sized orchids require ½-inch fir bark, and fine bark is used for orchids with smaller roots.
Sphagnum Moss
Sphagnum moss is a suitable option for orchids that tend to dry out quickly. When using this type of potting mix, be mindful of the acidic pH, as it may not work well with certain types of orchids.
When using sphagnum moss for repotting, ensure the pot is very loosely packed to allow for sufficient oxygen to the roots.
As mentioned earlier, this is a highly absorbing medium that can absorb fertilizer salts, which is why you need to repot the orchids at least once a year. If you wait too long, the leaves will turn yellow since the plant will be losing healthy fibers due to a decrease in salt.
Charcoal
This is another popular option used for orchid repotting, often combined with fir bark. It’s not a good absorber of water, but it can absorb fertilizer, which is why it’s best to change it every year and never reuse it.
Perlite
Perlite is usually added to fir bark, and the best one for orchids should be chunky. It’s lightweight and doesn’t absorb water
Coconut husks & gravel
Coconut husks are similar to fir bark but provide more moisture and don’t break down fast. Sponge rock provides great airflow and moisture retention.
Why is The Potting Mix Important?
Using a high-quality potting mix for orchids can lead to exceptional blooms and help you grow robust orchids that are a pleasure to observe.
Nevertheless, it all starts from the roots, and you have to prepare a strong base to grow the best orchids. That’s where the potting soil mix comes into place.
Before making a purchase, ensure you analyze the characteristics of the brand you intend to use. Some of the features to consider are the water retention, drainage, and aeration properties of the mix.
By choosing the right product from the outset, you can avoid repotting every six months and achieve long-term results.
Potting Mix for Orchids Review
1. PERFECT PLANTS’ All Natural Orchid Potting Mix
Highlighted Features
- All-purpose soil mix
- Promotes root expansion
- Great aeration
- Good drainage
- Re-sealable bag
This potting mix by Perfect Plants is an all-natural blend of various ingredients, including charcoal, pine bark, sponge rock, and coconut chips.
You can be certain that your orchid’s roots will have enough room to expand and climb since this potting mix can provide them with enough room to grow to their fullest.
Furthermore, the potting soil has excellent aeration, which prevents root suffocation. Additionally, the drainage is ideal, providing the orchids with the necessary balance of water and proper drainage.
Additionally, the product is sold in a 4-quart, practical, and durable re-sealable bag that allows you to store the product away when not in use.
Enthusiastic orchid growers confirm that this mix offers great value and encourages fast and healthy growth for your orchids to be fresher than ever.
2. Phalaenopsis Monterey Orchid Potting Mix by rePotme
Highlighted Features
- Re-sealable bag
- Great drainage
- Protects from root rot
- Great friend gift
- Trusted brand
RePotme specializes in manufacturing horticultural supplies for various exotic plants, including orchids, African violets, bonsai, and succulents.
Their potting mixes are hand-blended with high-quality ingredients, and this product comes in a re-sealable bag that you can use to store the leftover potting soil.
Moreover, as we mentioned at the beginning of our review, orchids require special care, which is why you need a product specifically designed for them.
RePotme’s products are packaged just days or hours before delivery to provide the freshest soil for your flowers.
For optimal results, select a pot with excellent drainage that complements the soil’s drainage system. Overwatering can hinder the orchid’s growth and cause the roots to rot.
3. Better-Gro Potting Mix
Highlighted Features
- Fertile chunk peat mix
- Good drainage
- Proper aeration
- Good for re-potting
- 8-quarts bag
This amazing phalaenopsis mix can do wonders for your orchids. It’s a strong and fertile mix of a few key ingredients, including Canadian chunk peat, hardwood charcoal, coarse perlite, and western fir bark.
It has been specially developed to provide sufficient moisture and fertilizer for your orchids to thrive with proper drainage, aeration, and root development.
Ideally, this potting mix should be used for repotting within a 12- to 18-month period to support proper plant growth.
According to customer testimonials, this potting mix can help your orchids become fresher in a matter of months; you’ll enjoy watching them grow new buds, spikes, and leaves.
4. Orchid Bark – Classic by Besgrow
Highlighted Features
- 5-liter bag
- Beneficial micro-organisms
- 100 % pure mix
- pH balanced
- Pathogen protection
Besgrow’s Orchiata is a 100% pure mix made from New Zealand’s Pinus radiata bark, sourced from renewable, man-made forests that are environmentally friendly.
This product comes in a 5-liter bag and can be used immediately without prior preparation, making it ideal for second potting.
Moreover, the balanced pH helps eliminate the acidity of the bark and provides a nurturing environment for your precious orchids. It also contains helpful microorganisms that protect against various plant pathogens.
Another great feature of this potting mix is that it doesn’t accumulate salts. Due to the aged bark, the orchids can retain nutrients and water properly, ensuring they remain hydrated at all times.
This mix lasts longer and doesn’t require frequent repotting like some other potting mixes.
5. Super Moss Potting Bark for Orchids
Highlighted Features
- 100 % organic
- Ideal for orchids
- Indoor & outdoor plants
- 4-quarts
- Easy to use
If you’re looking for a sustainable, all-natural, and organic mix, then Super Moss’s potting bark is a great option.
The main ingredient is Douglas fir bark, which provides excellent absorbency. Additionally, the product is not treated with heat or baked, preserving all its beneficial properties.
Furthermore, its pH value is ideal for growing orchids, providing them with the optimal amount of water and oxygen.
Because of the natural contents, this product is very similar to the natural environment in which orchids thrive, so you can be certain to give your orchids the best care.
6. Sun Bulb Better GRO Potting Mix
Highlighted Features
- High-quality
- Maintains proper moisture
- Reduces repotting shock
- Endorsed by AOS
- Perfect for orchids
Growing orchids is a breeze with the help of Sun Bulb’s Better GRO potting mix. It’s made with sphagnum moss that can help lower bacterial levels and maintain moisture balance.
Proper moisture and nutrition are essential for your sprouting, young, or sick orchids. Since this formula was specially prepared for re-potting, it can reduce transplant shock.
What’s more, you’re going to love the fact that the American Orchid Society has endorsed this product as one they trust. This great endorsement increases the product’s value among experienced gardeners.
Your precious orchids will love this mix, and you’ll see them thriving in no time. Don’t think twice about purchasing this product, as the manufacturer guarantees a competitive price and top quality.
7. RePotme All-Purpose Bark Potting Mix
Highlighted Features
- All-purpose mix
- Good drainage properties
- Handcrafted & fresh
- Re-sealable packaging
- Trusted manufacturer
RePotme is a trusted brand that makes gardening supplies for different exotic plants such as bonsai, African violets, succulents, and of course, lovely orchids.
It’s a handcrafted product made with exceptional ingredients, including Monterey bark from New Zealand and sponge rock.
If you’ve done your research about orchid potting soil, you must know that this is one of the best blends for your orchids.
It actively promotes healthy root growth and provides excellent drainage for optimal hydration of the flowers.
As long as you combine this product with a pot with drainage holes, you can expect your plants to flourish in no time, plus, you won’t have to deal with root rot and other plant diseases.
8. Better Gro Bloom Booster
Highlighted Features
- Bloom booster
- High phosphorus content
- No urea nitrogen
- Professional formula
- NPK 11-35-15
This amazing potting mix is a real bloom booster, as it contains a high amount of phosphorus, which enhances flowering and plant coloration very quickly.
Moreover, the product doesn’t contain any urea nitrogen, and it’s a professional formula that can help in the upkeep of your orchids.
As soon as you start using this mix, you’ll see the difference in the plants. They’ll be looking fresh, more beautiful, with lasting blooms and vibrant, healthy colors.
According to experienced gardeners, this bag of bloom booster can help extend the orchid’s life, is really easy to use, and works.
9. Southside Plant Organic Orchid Bark
Highlighted Features
- Great for repotting
- Medium size
- Different types of orchids
- Uniformed drying
- Professional formula
If you’re looking for something to improve your orchid’s overall condition, then this is the potting mix for you.
The formula is sold in bark chips with sizes ranging from 9 to 12 mm, which is ideal for repotting various-sized orchids. You can expect to see the results very soon, as the product promotes healthy root growth and improves drainage.
You can be certain that your plants won’t be overwatered or under-watered at any time. Additionally, it works well with various types of orchids, including Phalaenopsis, Cattleya, Vandas, and Cymbidium, keeping them healthy and strong year-round.
Thanks to New Zealand’s Pinus radiata bark, any moisture will be soaked up evenly, and there will be no wet spots in the soil.
Professional gardeners highly recommend this mix because it helps stimulate the natural, tropical habitat of orchids.
10. Better-Gro Charcoal for Orchids 8-Quarts
Highlighted Features
- Ideal for orchids
- Long-lasting
- Natural charcoal
- Improves drainage & aeration
- All-natural
This is the perfect charcoal mix for your lovely Vandas as well as other types of orchids. It’s made of natural charcoal, and the large chunks of bark provide the necessary drainage support, holding moisture when needed.
Proper drainage and moisture are essential in orchid upkeep since they ensure the plants don’t dry out and die.
Moreover, charcoal is an effective bug repellent, ensuring your plants are protected from pests and maintaining a healthy root system.
The product is all-natural, doesn’t contain any harmful or toxic substances, and you can see the results very fast, as soon as your orchids start looking fresher and more vibrant than ever.
Last but not least, Better-Gro’s charcoal provides proper aeration and enough room for the orchids to thrive effortlessly.
Final Thoughts
Finally, we’d like to share a few thoughts on the best orchid potting mix. Using a good, quality brand can provide your plant with the necessary drainage and airflow, which are essential factors for orchid growth.
Moreover, you have to remember that the potting mix for orchids shouldn’t contain dirt. To make things easier for you, we’ve prepared this review with some of the best potting mixes for orchids.
If you want the best, then go for PERFECT PLANTS’ All Natural Orchid Potting Mix. It can be used with any orchid and provides the needed moisture and drainage.
The main ingredient of this potting mix is charcoal, which has excellent drainage properties and also serves as a bug repellent.
Rest assured that your plants will thrive very quickly.
Nevertheless, if you need a cheaper option, you can always check out the Better GRO Potting Mix by Sun Bulb.
We’re confident that you now have enough information to make an informed purchase and keep your orchids happy.
Happy Gardening!