So, what is the best pot for orchid plant? In actuality there’s no single best pot for an orchid plant. Every orchid species has a different way of growth, and planting in the wrong pot will most likely mean that you’re not growing your orchid plant to its full potential. As with most things in life, you do get what you pay for when it comes to orchid pots.
The biggest factor in determining what the best pot is for your orchid plant is size. Orchid pots come in all shapes and sizes, from the small and narrow N.F.T. shapes, which are good for large orchids, to the large L shapes, which are perfect for orchids with tall, upright growth habits. If you are simply starting out, you may want to consider a smaller pot. If you have never planted orchid plants before, then a medium sized pot will work just fine. You can always add extra soil or fertilizer to a larger pot if you need to.
Size will also be determined by how many orchids you plan to grow. Orchid plants can be very demanding and can quickly take over an available pot. If you are growing orchids primarily for decoration and as a source of exotic flowers, then a larger pot will be more suited to your needs. However, orchids are very adaptable and can survive in any pot from small, shallow ones, to large, deep ones.
Another consideration when choosing a pot is color and type of wood. Metal pots are often recommended but orchids can still thrive in clay pots and other porous mediums. Also, look for the most durable pots on the market. Plastic pots are not very durable and can break easily. Glass is fine, but do make sure that it is UV protected.
The pot should allow for proper drainage but not be so large that the orchid plants will drown in water. A drainage hole at the bottom is good and will help keep excess moisture out. However, a hole in the middle of the pot can allow water to pool around the roots. This is what causes damage to orchid plants and should be avoided.
The pot should be wide enough that the orchid plants can climb up, but not so wide that they might overstrain themselves. A good rule of thumb is to have one to two feet of clearance between the orchid plant and the side of the pot. A taller pot can also provide room for the orchid plant to grow horizontally. You can have pots that are taller but wider than usual. Just be sure that there is still adequate space for maneuvering.
The pot should be deep enough to hold the orchid plant’s roots comfortably, but not too deep that the roots can drown. Some orchids will actually grow better if the pot is partially submerged in the potting soil. This will help keep the roots from getting so close to the surface that they can die. This is an important step to remember if you are growing orchid plants indoors.
So, how do you choose the best pot for orchid plant? The best pot for orchid plants should have the right amount of room to grow. If the pot is too small, the orchid plant may not get the needed space to grow and prosper. If the pot is too big, the roots may overheat and die. Your choice in the size of the pot will depend on what type of orchid you are growing. For instance, a small pot will be perfect for a small to medium-sized orchid plant while a large pot will be better suited for a larger orchid plant.