7 Surprising Ways to Boost Orchid Growth with the Right Pot

[@georgepernicano6513]

Well Dave, Australia here. Tight ass orchid hobbyist. The big/deep terracotta pots are fine if you fill the bottom to medium section with pumice and styrofoam. These will not hold the water and will not rot. The reason for getting the deep pots (in Australia at least) is that they’re half the price of the shallow (bulb) pots. Styrofoam is everywhere and free. Must use some bark or moss near the top to hold onto nutrients and also for aesthetics. Keep up the animated enthusiasm Dave. You’re very entertaining mate.

[@EliasRoviello]

Thanks for the outstanding lesson! From São Paulo, Brasil!

[@jillcollins8555]

I use slotted clear plastic pots and put them inside terracotta pots… AND orchids are very spiritual and therapeutic for me too. I had one cattleya for 10+ years hanging in a tree that was strictly on its own, I finally bought a few phals and vandas. Then i went through a very stressful/ traumatic period in my life at work, I happened to repot a phal for the first time and also had one of the vandas bloom at the same time everything was falling apart at work… it was an epiphany that hit me so clearly… I realized that orchids are like life, we have to create an environment for them to thrive and they do the rest. I was not in a thriving environment at work and these orchids showed me that I could thrive in an environment more suited for me instead of trying to thrive in a crappy environment. 🤯 it was so simple yet so profound… Thank you orchids. I am now in a thriving work environment, love what I do and have continued to grow my orchid collection. The cattleya is thriving much more too… I should have 9-12 blooms from all the new growth on her!!

[@Orchidbabez]

I’m so happy to know your story and how orchids help you. Beautiful.

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Sounds like your orchids have their own therapy session going on! Who knew that potting plants could lead to such profound life lessons? Maybe I should start a plant therapy channel!

[@jillcollins8555]

@@DavesOrchidOasis Lol, plant therapy… yess! I caught myself telling a vanda i just bought how happy it would be living at my house and realized this was so much better than bringing another cat home 🤣 (for the record I only have one cat)

[@shaguito87]

Living in Hawaii, we have an awesome environment for orchids. I use terra cotta, cement, plastic and some ceramic pots. My favorite of course are the cedar wooden baskets, my orchids are very happy in them. I plan to make my own cedar baskets and size them accordingly. I want to build some in a rectangular shape for future vandas that I've been eyeballing.

[@fritzjagr5121]

Definitely spiritual! The only time I use a glazed pot with no hole is when I mount an orchid and then fill the pot with lava rock and other types of rocks (crystals, sea glass, etc.) with a bit of water to provide humidity. Here in north Texas, it can get very dry, and some of my orchids love a little extra humidity. I set them out over the glazed pot with the rocks like it is spit-roasting, and the humidity provided by the “bath” keeps the orchid happy and ensures constant humidity if I have to leave for a little while. Love your vids, subscribed 😊

[@lynnvarner5383]

I was indeed holding my breath for the big favorite pot reveal! Lo and behold, just as you were showing it, my husband came in and I said "look what Dave says!" Because he made me two of those from cedar and I can confirm that the orchids I have in those two are doing the absolute best! Thanks Dave!

[@Toddster63]

Pot selection is all about environment-growing conditions. And that is how you should make your pot selection-based on your individual growing environment. Dave, you grow in humid South Florida and water a lot-terra cotta is perfect for you, as things will dry out faster; I grow in Northern California where we often have days at 75F-85F with humidity dropping to as low as 20% during strong sunlight hours (even in winter)-so plastic is perfect for me to keep the roots moister and the media damper. But I still utilize holes/slits for Catts/Oncid in plastic pots over 5” to avoid water-logged cores (most important as my bark media gets older). And I love seeing the roots in clear pots. You can get inventive and creative too; at one point years ago I was hooked on the romanticism of classic terra cotta orchid pots with holes (and the heavier weight), so I strongly waterproofed the interiors of terra cotta orchid pots and voila I had more water retentive pots with the outward look of terra cotta.

[@kathyskirbst5061]

Very good information, thanks!

[@JustcallmeDebbieB]

My favorite non-pot and project is mounting! Doing a couple today! So fun to do!

[@EpiphyticAddict]

It's full name is Ludisia discolor. There are other terrestrial orchids that are referred to as jewel orchids. I also have a Macodes petola. I live in central FL. I mostly use terracotta orchid pots. I also mount. Everything in pots are in lava rocks and course perlite. I used the cedar and teak wood baskets but they break down and have fungi growing on them in just a few years.

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

I love your username! That's a great point about the algae.

[@elbeem20001]

I make my own baskets using the endurable guava tree branches. After cutting the branches, i prep them, by leaving them for a few months to dry out, then cut them in 6" lengths to make the baskets. They last forever!! And the orchids love them.

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

That's awesome! It sounds like you have a great process for making those baskets. The durability of guava branches is impressive, and it's wonderful that the orchids thrive in them!

[@nariepittman4632]

Hervey Bay Queensland Australia here - I mainly use terracotta or clear plastic pots, they work for me so I can see the roots. I do put extra holes in my clear plastic pots with a soldering iron though. I live in a tropical environment in a house with a “wrap around” verandah. All my orchids grow on the verandah, with 50% shade cloth blinds. They are thriving.

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

It sounds like you have a fantastic setup for your orchids! The combination of terracotta and clear plastic pots is a great choice, and it's amazing to hear how well they're thriving in your tropical environment.

[@cherylpenn4509]

Oh my goodness. My heart dropped....... I got such a fright. Dont drop any more pots. and love that hanging monster at 2.38. Terracotta pots in my country are the cost of an orchid..... no can do. :) I have learnt so much from you. S . Africa. yep, clear plastic pots, but put them in a glazed pot for aesthetic looks. I like Zygos, Dend. and Cymbidiums.

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled to hear you’re learning from my videos. Your tips on using clear plastic pots sound fantastic-I'm sure other viewers will appreciate it too!

[@ralfbrandt3372]

I’m in Adelaide South Australia, I grow orchids in a greenhouse. As my humidity is 50-100% therefore I need to keep the substrate course for fast drying. Other orchids are mounted. Quite successful. The good thing about South Australian Hills is low winter temperatures and also dropping temperatures at nights.

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

It's awesome to hear that you're having success with your orchids! The unique climate in South Australia really does provide a great environment for growing them. Keep up the fantastic work!

[@gagunshooting803]

I have been using the cheap terracotta pots and I have been cutting slits in them with a grinder with a tile cutting blade. I also use the ceramic pots and ventilation slits in them as well…plus I drill holes in the bottom

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Those are great ideas. Do you have to use a special drill bit?

[@gagunshooting803]

@@DavesOrchidOasis yes I use a masonry bit or a diamond drill bit. I use water to keep them cool while drilling.

[@elisep2450]

Hi Dave, I live in the Netherlands and I only have a couple of phals and paphiopedilums inside my house. I watch your videos for escapism, looking at the luxurious plants I can’t grow here. Yet your explanations about orchids’ needs always make sense to me, even if you’re talking about other varieties in a totally different climate. I have used terracotta and transparent plastic pots with holes. But the wooden basket sounds and looks nicer; it could be something I could try here.

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Do you have room for a greenhouse outside? I have a friend in Canada who does that

[@elisep2450]

@@DavesOrchidOasis I live in the city center of Amsterdam; I don’t even have a balcony 🥲 That’s why I look at your videos thinking “oooh this is what paradise must look like” 😅 So please keep showing us your collection and also your other plants like the Madagascar palm! I’ll never be able to become a “hardcore orchid person”, but still, I really enjoy hearing you talking about your passion!

[@kimdreyer4970]

02:00 - that is indeed an impressive specimen. I would have difficulty growing a Cattleya to that size because I grow on the windowsill. I do you the glazed ceramic pots, but as decorative containers. I prefer to grower my Cattleyas in clear plastic pots with holes, placed inside the decorative container (I NEVER grow directly in the decorative container). The holes ensure that the medium doesn't stay soggy for too long, while I appreciate being able to monitor the roots through the clear plastic. I water with rainwater, allowing the orchid to soak for about half an hour, after which I pour away all excess water. I figure that the decorative container allows for a good soak while keeping the light away from the clear plastic pots, preventing algae. Seems to do the trick under my conditions.

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Thanks for sharing your growing method! It sounds like you've really found a system that works for you. Cattleyas can be tricky, but with the right care, they can thrive even in smaller spaces like a windowsill.

[@guaynabicha]

Thanks Dave! I have some orchids in terracota pots, others in regular plastic pots and now trying the plastic baskets for the first time. Here in the Caribbean is very hot and humid so I am using more charcoal and rocks with little bark mix. My collection is small and out in a balcony. 🇵🇷⛱️☀️🌊

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

That sounds like a great mix for your orchids! The Caribbean climate is perfect for them, and it’s exciting that you’re experimenting with different pot types. Keep us updated on how they thrive!

[@karlaperez3035]

I love the black plastic baskets, but I don't have anywhere to hang them. I live in Florida, and I love terra cotta pots.

[@JamesBrown-i2e]

Hi Dave, my favorite type of pot for an orchid is terracotta. I did use a lot of plastic pots for ventilation holes, but growing indoors it seems they never fully dried out. Now, all my cattleyas and dendrobiums are in terracotta pots. I do have a Stanhopia orchid outside in a 6" black plastic pot that really needs to be moved up to an 8" plastic pot next spring. I'm here in Kentucky and it's going down to mid 40's over the weekend so my five vandas and Stanhopia will have to come inside. Another great informative video. Thanks, James

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Thanks for sharing your orchid potting experience, James! Terracotta is a great choice for those who want to maintain proper moisture levels. Good luck with your Stanhopia and keep those vandas cozy indoors!

[@sylviabeichert943]

In my area of Australia I've never seen the airy, plastic pot you showed but it makes me wonder why no one is making them out of thin cane. Maybe I'll try making them!!!!

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

That's a great idea! Thin cane pots could really add a unique touch to plant styling. I'd love to see what you come up with!

[@Hypancistrusspecies]

Watching from Switzerland Have specific plastic orchid pots, mounted

[@momtacoma7733]

Hi Dave, Very enjoyable and informative videos!! Stunning well-grown orchids, easy to understand and excellent commentary!! Even though I live in Canada, I can learn and relate to my greenhouse growing conditions. The roots of certain Cattleya species and primary hybrids need to photosynthesize so they either have to be mounted or grown in clear plastic pots. I grow my Cattleya aclandiae primary hybrids and Shilleriana primary hybrids in clear pots. I grow and have flowered many Vandas and Ascocendas (my favourites) and Encyclias, Mini-Catts, and many, various orchid hybrids and non-orchid exotics eg. Epiphyllums, Plumerias, Queen's Wreath, Hoyas, Bouganvillea, Citrus, Bromeliads, etc! Such a wonderful and exciting life long hobby (Obsession!) that I have enjoyed for 50 years! I will be fertilizing my orchids consistently now that I just bought a Siphon Mixer. Hopefully, I will be getting more Orchid blooms! And I will look for Dynamite fertilizer. Thanks again for the excellent tips!

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

I never thought about putting Cattleyas in clear pots for photosynthesis purposes. Genius!

[@ruthfox9863]

Hi Dave I am from the Bahamas and I love watching your video's I've learnt a lot from you . Yes I find terracotta pots to be excellent for my orchids.

[@kathyskirbst5061]

That’s very interesting what you said about the photosynthesis of certain cattleya orchids. I’ve only been growing orchids for a few years now and I have over 100. I have noticed that certain cattleyas climb out of the basket and the roots can be 18 inches long while the ones that I potted in the clay pots have not done that. I’m not sure if it’s the difference in the orchid or the container that is causing the phenomenon. But I find it difficult to manage the super long roots on these cattleyas because now they’re acting like Vandas and need to be watered daily. Going forward I think I prefer the clay pots. I will do more studying to see what type of cattleyas I have that are huge rooters and which ones are not. Thanks

[@thomassweatland3597]

Love the Madagascar palm!

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Very pokey

[@capcisi]

I make my own terracotta (bisque) pots with lots of big holes and terracotta mounts. However, here in southern NM at 6000' it gets cold and the clay pots act like swamp coolers and get cold. That's why I started making my own wooden pots and mounts mostly from recycled oak pallets or cool wood chunks I find in the forest. Still like making flower pots in clay

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

It's awesome to hear that you're experimenting with different materials! Adapting to your environment is key, and it sounds like you're finding some creative solutions with those wooden pots.

[@williammalone8097]

i like the baskets, both wood and plastic, but for those of us in the northern climates, where we have to bring the orchids inside for the fall and winter months, watering becomes a huge chore. It becomes undoable because of the mess it makes.

[@remaeburney832]

I absolutely love the wood baskets! Next is the terracotta or clay pots. I just bought a basket! I have not mastered mounting yet, so my babies are in wood baskets and terracotta. I hate plastic! Hate plastic!

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

I'm glad to hear you love the wood baskets! They really do add a nice touch to any space. Terracotta pots are a great choice too-can't wait to see how your setup evolves!

[@newmanmansell760]

Hi Dave! From Japan😌🙌The number 1 used product for orchids is terracotta for collectors, and closely after is plastic and ceramics. The ceramics are for displaying phalaenopsis, but they are still in their nursery plastic pots and put into a ceramic pot with large chunks of styrofoam at the bottom. The netted plastic pots and orchid pots are never seen at nurseries here and usually bought online from specific stores. Thanks for the video Dave! It was interesting😃👏🌟

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Thanks for sharing your insights from Japan! It’s fascinating to hear how different countries approach orchid care. Terracotta really does seem to be a favorite among collectors!

[@TheDrmsosa]

Where can I find black plastic baskets in different sizes?

[@ГуляШисинова]

Hi! I live in the Sankt-Peterburg, Russia, where it is winter for nine months ))) I use plastic transparent pots. Thanks for the interesting videos and beautiful orchids!👍❤

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Hi there! It’s great to hear from someone in Sankt-Peterburg! Winter must be quite a challenge, but it sounds like you’re doing a fantastic job with your orchids. Keep up the amazing work!

[@eloina17]

Im from Puerto Rico currently using all pots except ceramic without holes. So basically for me it was experiment to see what works best and all my orchids are behaving nicely already a year in. but i do love full terracotta for the algae and mosses that grow on it

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

It's awesome to hear that your orchids are thriving! Experimenting with different pots can be so rewarding. Keep enjoying the journey!

[@EpiphyticAddict]

I use grape fruit seed extract, you can buy it at vitamin or health food stores or online. Add a few drops to water, use paper towels to not spread viruses, and whipe down the pot when you see it. It just comes right off and it has never harmed my orchid roots when it gets absorbed into the pots.

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Thanks for sharing your experience! It's great to know that grapefruit seed extract is effective and safe for orchid roots. Your tips will definitely help others in caring for their plants!

[@mariapina1755]

In Miami, FL and terracotta is my favorite❤😊

[@melissabyrd6681]

Where do you purchase your cedar baskets from?

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Lowes

[@LizE2654]

I live in Texas and grow my orchids indoors except for when they need a cool down to bloom. You're going to hate my orchid pots. I like the ones with the reservoirs. I pot my orchids with a wick and when I'm on vacation for 2 or 3 weeks, they stay hydrated. I found my environment dries out the medium really fast. I don't use the self watering on a regular basis but there are times when I really appreciate it. Also, what is the name of the beautiful cattleya you showed in the beginning?

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

It sounds like you have a great system for keeping your orchids happy while you're away! The Cattleya at the beginning is actually a Cattleya trianae, known for its stunning blooms. Happy growing!

[@christellough3401]

I love terra cotta pots

[@judyperkins4509]

Hi Are you OK after your massive hurricane? Take care from Australia

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Yes. It was a bad one. But minimal damage

[@hannahespy6234]

I like all the fancy pots lol 🤣 the 3d printed tea cup pots from orchids 365

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

I'm glad you like the fancy pots! The 3D printed tea cup pots from Orchids 365 are definitely unique and eye-catching.

[@AngelaGStark]

Do you keep any orchids in the house?

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

No

[@marieannehouston7727]

Jewel orchid - Ludisia discolor

[@miamianz]

With the deep terracotta pots i fill them halfway with lava rocks. If im using moss / or wood chip media. I agree on the spiritual aspect.

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

That makes sense.

[@zenjoyablespirit2467]

I’m in nw Oregon 😅 I have a mini greenhouse that I keep inside and I have my cattleyas and catt hybrids in it it’s always about 85 degrees and 70% humidity and I have a little fan always on in it. The rest of my orchids I keep inside all year except my one vanda I put outside during the summer

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

It sounds like you have a great setup for your orchids! Keeping that humidity and temperature just right is key to healthy growth. Keep up the fantastic work!

[@bibicheknauf4163]

The “scientific “ name of a jewel orchid is “Ludisia” 😉. I am also in Sarasota and, besides mounted orchids, my first choice is terra cota pots. For years I used plastic pots but had too many root rot 😫. So sorry for your big ceramic pot which ended on your lanai floor😱😍

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Ah, the tragic tale of the ceramic pot! It’s like the sad ending of a plant movie. At least it didn’t take the whole lanai with it, right?

[@bibicheknauf4163]

@@DavesOrchidOasis no, but I hope nobody is going to walk barefoot on the lanai for a while😱😍

[@samanthaunderwood2445]

Love your work!!! You look smokin! I'm in the UK and killin my orchids I have one with no leaves but roots and 2 with leaves no roots omg!!! the rest are doing great I have about 37 not many compared... Any help??? :(

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

It is hot and sunny and humid year round where you live?

[@shirleywilhelm1495]

I've started over with having orchids. I love Vanilla , really love Albo Verigated vanilla, but this one doesn't like my environment, so they die. Like Nodosa's . I'm in South Texas, I grow indoors, in front of window afternoon light.

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

It sounds like you're really passionate about your orchids! Finding the right environment can be tricky, but keep experimenting, and you’ll find what works best for your vanilla plants.

[@victoriariviere9503]

I buy the basic clay pot and drill extra holes.

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

That's a great approach! Drilling extra holes can really help with drainage and keep your plants happy.

[@victoriariviere9503]

Dave another cheap solution is pond pots

[@PC-zg3eo]

The pot I used for my orchids depends on the type of orchid.

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

Absolutely! Different orchid types have unique needs, and choosing the right pot can make all the difference in their growth.

[@hannahespy6234]

Where are your favorite stores? I'm close enough to your area hahaha 🤣

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

PALMER ORCHIDS. Plantio orchieda is good too

[@IdaRaypole]

Wire basket from dollar tree

[@JustcallmeDebbieB]

Disas like water...

[@rampxxxx]

another fantastic video even for an atheist like me

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

I'm glad you enjoyed the video! It's always great to hear that different perspectives can appreciate the content. Maybe my orchids will bring you to Jesus someday. LOL

[@nancytorricella4040]

My favorites are wood and clay the plastic basket do not make the Beautiful orchids to look good I hate plastic sorry 😊

[@DavesOrchidOasis]

I totally understand your preference! Wood and clay really do add a natural touch that complements orchids beautifully.