Although orchids do enjoy being somewhat potbound, there will come a time when any orchid will need a new pot.
Outgrowing a pot is not the only reason why repotting might be necessary; the growing medium will break down in time, reducing to a fine, dust-like substance.
Unlike the original consistency of the medium, which allowed for the free flowing of air and water, and dried out quickly, the fine residue tends to compact and hold water.
As orchids are plants that want their roots to dry out between waterings, this soggy dust can cause the roots to rot, and ultimately the orchid will die.
Most orchids will need regular repotting at an interval of one to three years, depending on the species.
There may be times when an emergency repotting is necessary, but generally the grower can plan ahead to pick the best time for this procedure.
Like all plants, orchids go through a regular cycle during the year, and being aware of this cycle can make all the difference between success and failure when giving the orchid a new pot.
The best time to repot orchids is after the yearly rest period is over with, usually in late winter or spring.
The roots should be showing only a bit of new growth, and repotting now will cause the least amount of disturbance to the orchid.
It is generally best to stick with what has worked well in the past, and this means using the same potting medium that you have been using, rather than trying a new one.
You should switch mediums only if you have experienced problems with the old mix.
The same would apply to the pot the orchid will be planted in.
If you have had success with the type of pot you have been using, use the same kind again, just slightly larger.
To remove the orchid from the old pot, upend the pot (keeping your fingers spread around the body of the plant) and give it several good taps to loosen the roots.
As the orchid is probably potbound, you may have to use a knife to remove roots that are stuck to the sides.
Once the orchid is out of the pot, remove as much of the old growing medium as possible.
Any roots that are black or brown or mushy should be cut off, as well as leafless pseudobulbs.
The roots can be rinsed in water before being put into their new pot, to make sure that all the old medium is gone.
You should choose a pot slightly larger than the original one, one that will allow the orchid to grow for several years comfortably.
Putting the orchid into a too small pot will only mean that it will have to undergo the stress of repotting fairly quickly.
Some people like to put broken flower pot shards into the bottom of the new pot, to accommodate fast drainage.
Wet the growing medium before putting it into the pot, but let it drain so that it is only damp.
Place a layer in the bottom of the pot, position the orchid on this layer, then slowly and carefully fill in the rest of the pot, making sure to get the medium into the center of the roots as well as around the outside.
Once all the medium is in, firm it down.
Mist the plant and set it into the shade to allow it to reestablish itself before being exposed to more sun.
As soon as new root growth is observed, the orchid can be returned to its usual place on the windowsill.