When to Transplant a Moth Orchid

Outdoor Orchid Transplanting Needs

• Moth orchids grown outdoors do not need transplanting unless a problem arises with the plant or the growing area. However, if growing conditions, such as sunlight exposure or water availability, change, transplant the orchid to more favorable growing conditions. Outdoor orchids can stay in one place so long is that the soil is constantly refreshed and stimulated by organic decomposition of nutrients in the soil, as well as from nearby plants and rainwater.

Indoor Orchid Transplanting Needs

• Moth orchids grown indoors have different requirements from those grown outdoors. Houseplant moth orchids grown in pots or containers need transplanting and repotting once a year, refreshing the soil and growing medium. This medium receives no refreshment from nearby plants or natural rainwater and decomposes in time, limiting the available nutrients.

When to Transplant

• Transplanting indoor orchids at any time, since you carefully maintain the orchid's temperature, light exposure and water exposure. Do not transplant the orchid during its active growing season, generally from early summer to late fall, or you lose that year's bloom. The best time to transplant outdoor orchids is in early spring, when the plant is still dormant but the ground thawed enough for working the soil to dig out the orchid and place it somewhere new.

Growing Medium

• When repotting or transplanting a moth orchid, pay attention to the potting medium. Orchids grow best in organic mediums, such as moss and bark. These organic materials provide extra nutrients, acting like natural fertilizers, and ensure that excess water drains from the orchid. If you transplant to a new area of your garden, mix in 3 to 4 inches of organic materials to the regular garden soil when transplanting.