The Orchid Society of Canberra Growing Guides
Guides for Various Orchid Groups
Australian Dendrobium Orchids
Australian Terrestrial Orchids
Bulbophyllum Orchids
Cattleya Orchids
Coelogyne Orchids
Cymbidium Orchids
Dockrillia Orchids
Maxillaria Orchids
Oncidium Orchids
Paphiopedilum Orchids
Phalaenopsis Orchids
Pleurothallid Orchids
Sarcochilus Orchids
Soft Cane Dendrobium Orchids
Stanhopeinae Orchids
Thelychiton Speciosus Orchids
Vandae Orchids
Other Helpful Guides
Pot Stands
A simple and cheap pot stand can be made using plastic pots. Select a pot which is at least several sizes larger than the one in which the orchid is growing, invert it and cut a circular hole in the bottom big enough to hold the pot with the plant but not allowing it to fall through. Alternatively, if the pot to be used as the stand is only one size larger, (eg 250mm to hold a 200mm ) it may be necessary to cut about 10mm off the bottom of the pot. In this case ensure the cut edge fits into the lip of the plant pot in order to restrengthen the holding pot.
This approach has various advantages over the usual double potting method:
- it provides a more stable base for the orchid when grown outdoors and exposed to strong wind
- it provides insulation for the orchid roots in hot or cold weather
- if the bottom of the inserted pot is off the ground, there is less incentive for orchid roots to penetrate the bottom of the pot.
- in general the pot stand will be quite secure against being blown over by the wind. However, if extra stability is required, pegs could be driven into the ground to catch the lip of the upturned pot or bricks or other heavy objects could be sat on the lip
- when watering, the lip of the pot can be filled to help maintain humidity (if on a level surface).
A word of advice: When cold, a plastic pot is stiff and brittle, making cutting difficult and possibly dangerous. Therefore place the plastic pot in full sun on a warm/hot day for at least 15 minutes before attempting to cut it. The plastic will become fexible and easier to cut. A “stanley knife” is adequate to cut the pot, BUT BE CAREFUL as flesh is softer than plastic.
Making a Wire Stake
Bamboo stakes are popular as they are cheap. However they have limitations in that they rot after a time, may not be sufficiently stable in squat pots and can easily be pulled out.
Longer lasting and secure stakes can, with a little patience and pactice, be made quickly and easily from wire.
For instructions, click on the image.
