Orchids are a beautiful plant, but they can be a little difficult to grow and care for without the right knowledge. Generally, most people don’t think about the pots in which they plant or replant orchids, but this is essential.
You can find pots that are designed specifically for orchids. Usually, these make the best orchid pots. We are going to discuss 10 different containers today.
However, we are also going to help you learn how to choose a pot. You are also going to find out how to plant orchids and care for them in containers.
Table of Contents
Selecting a Pot For Your Orchid
When it comes time to shop for a pot for your orchid, you are going to find many options from which to choose. Some containers are designed to be ornamental, while others focus on functionality.
The most common one is the basic pot, which is either terracotta clay or plastic. However, you can find other materials. All of them have their advantages, and it might help to know which type of orchid you are planting.
In general, plastic pots are better with a fine potting mix if your orchid seems to get too dry. If you tend to overwater your orchids, a coarse potting mix with a clay pot might be ideal.
The primary differences between standard pots and orchid ones are how many drainage holes there are and also the size of them. Orchid pots tend to have more and larger holes in the sides and bottoms to ensure the right drainage.
Some containers are quite shallow and shorter than a standard pot. It also has a larger base, so it is ideal for top-heavy plants. Others are narrow and tall to help with orchids that have long roots.
Selecting the Type of Pots for Your Orchids
You can find a variety of orchid pot types:
1
Net pots. These use black plastic mesh. They’re reminiscent of the strawberry baskets that you can find in your supermarket.
2
Clear plastic pots. Such pots can help light reach the roots. This way, you can observe them and ensure that they are growing properly.
3
Net basket insert pots. These work well for drainage. They also offer better air circulation.
4
Bi-level drainage pots. These usually have a domed bottom. Of course, they also have a lot of drainage holes.
5
Wooden baskets. Generally, these pots are made of teak or other rot-resistant woods. When you pot in baskets, you should line them with sheet moss before adding the potting mixture.
Whether you select plastic, clay, or wood, the orchid pot must be strong and rigid enough to support the plant. Most orchids like to be root-bound.
Selecting the Proper Orchid Pot Size
Now that you know the different types of pots available for orchids, it’s time to decide on the right size. Orchids like to be under-potted. Therefore, you need to focus on the two rules for choosing a pot.
1. Root Mass
This is essential to determine what size pot to use. Just because it looks similar to the current pot doesn’t mean it is appropriate. Make sure that you remove the orchid from the container, clean off dead or decaying roots, and consider trimming the roots.
Select a pot that accommodates the roots that are left. Make sure they aren’t twisted or cramped. Plus, make sure that there’s not too much space, either.
2. Two Years of Growth
The rule of thumb here is to use a pot that accommodates your orchids growing two more years before repotting them. For sympodial orchids, think about how close the bulbs or canes grow together. Generally, the oldest part of the plant goes against the edge so that the youngest is in the middle and can continue growing.
The 10 Best Pots For Your Orchid Plants
It’s important to get the right information, and this table can help. It lists all 10 of the products so that you can easily get to the one you want to know more about.
When it comes to orchid pots, you’ve got many choices. The rePotme brand offers slotted clear pots in various sizes. You get two of the three-inch, four-inch, five-inch, and six-inch versions. Plus, they come in many colors.
Options include black, copper-amber, and golden crème. You also have purple, rose, red, white pearl, and yellow.
These products are designed with UV protection in mind. Therefore, the pot is going to resist the UV rays from the sun. That way, there is less risk of the plant burning or scorching while in the container.
Of course, the material used is plant-safe. This means that your orchids aren’t going to soak up anything harmful. Then, you’ve also got a small glass saucer in which the pot sits.
That way, you can catch the water drops so that they don’t ruin your furniture. With so many holes on the sides and bottom, this provides better airflow and drainage.
2. Sun Bulb 51720 Better GRO Octagon Cedar Basket
Those who want a wooden pot might like the one from Sun Bulb. It is an eight-inch octagonal wooden basket with plenty of slats. Plus, it is made of cedar, so it isn’t going to rot when water touches it.
However, you should be aware that you must use moss or a clear container to house the orchid. The slats are spaced far apart, so the soil is just going to fall through without one.
Still, this is an excellent planter for a variety of orchids with and without a medium. It’s hand-crafted, which means it is strong and high-quality. The natural wood works quite well with the Vanda orchid but can be used for other plants, too.
Consider sphagnum moss or coconut fibers as a liner. You can also use vegetable or onion sacks. The galvanized wire eyelets are popular and can help you pick up the basket easily and move it.
3. Plastic Clear Slotted Orchid Pots
If you want something simple, then the plastic clear orchid pots from DAN Market might be ideal. It comes in two sizes (4.5- and 5.5-inch). These are the original shaped pots with holes along the sides.
This allows more air to get to the roots and ensures proper drainage. Of course, the pot itself is quite flexible, but it is also sturdy. That way, you can see the roots and know when to upgrade to a bigger size.
Those who don’t like mesh pots are sure to like this alternative. It’s still flexible like the mesh, but it can be easier to use. Plus, it looks great within the home.
The best part is that such pots can be reused. When yours outgrows the small size, repot it and put a smaller orchid in its place. Just wash it with soap and water and let it dry before reusing it.
4. Mkono Plastic Orchid Pots Set
The Mkono brand features a plastic orchid pot set. You get two inner pots (nets) and two outer pots. This allows you to increase how much water and nutrients get to the plant.
Therefore, there is more airflow. This promotes healthier root growth. The pots are designed specifically for orchids, cattleya, and dendrobium, as well as other common plants.
With the slotted pot, you can help the roots grow laterally and distribute evenly. The net ensures more airflow to prevent the circling of the roots.
Both of the pots feature holes at the bottom for good drainage. However, the inner container has vented and slotted sides, as well.
They are made of durable PP plastic and come in white color. Each pot is about 6.75 inches high and 7.5 inches wide. Therefore, they work best for larger and taller orchids.
5. TRENDSPOT Orchid Indoor Planter
With the TRENDSPOT brand, you get a beautiful orchid planter. It is five inches in diameter and a short, shallow pot. Therefore, it is ideal for smaller orchids.
The saucer is attached to the base, but it does include a built-in drainage hole. There are also plenty of holes built into the sides, as well. This can help to control water run-off.
Still, it is ideal to set something underneath the planter to protect the surface. This can include a table or the floor.
Of course, this is a handmade pot and is considered decorative. Plus, it is made of terracotta and is then glazed. The blue reactive glaze, which can complement many décor options.
Though it is five inches in diameter, it does come as a two- or three-pack. Therefore, it works well for those who have multiple orchid plants that need to be repotted.
6. Flowers Orchids Planters Mesh Net Pots
The baskets from Link Solar come in black or brown. They also have an eight-inch diameter and are seven inches tall. With the inner basket, there is plenty of slots for drainage and aeration.
This works well to encourage the best root development possible. You also get better airflow, which means the roots aren’t going to circle as the plant gets bigger. Of course, you should check the roots periodically to ensure that they aren’t too big for the plant.
These baskets are heat-resistant from 120 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees Celsius. Therefore, they are also durable. Because they are made of plastic, they aren’t going to corrode, either.
The materials have been ROHS-approved, so they can be in contact with food. You get the inner and outer pot with your purchase. Its outer container does have holes on the bottom for extra drainage.
7. ClearPots Plastic Orchid Pot
Are you interested in a plain, clear plastic pot? If so, the one from ClearPots might be ideal. It’s simple in nature, but it has a sturdy design that was made in Germany.
It is 5 7/8 inches in diameter and 4 7/8 inches tall, though the bottom has a small taper. This ensures better drainage and aeration. You can also get the right humidity levels for your orchids.
This clear plastic allows more light to get to the roots. It also features a raised center in the bottom of an inch. That can prevent stagnant water from occurring.
Keep in mind, though, that this product does not contain side holes. This is very important for proper airflow and drainage. Therefore, it might not be ideal for certain orchid plants.
However, you can see inside to watch for the roots. When you notice that they are peeking out toward the plastic, it is time to replant the orchid in a bigger pot.
8. Blue Sapphire Orchitop Carousel Orchid Pot
If you’re interested in something unique, the Blue Sapphire Carousel pot might be ideal. Of course, it features an exclusive design that you aren’t likely to find anywhere else. Plus, it comes in blue turquoise, white pearl, and crystal diamond.
The pot itself looks different because it features many small pegs that stand upright and are attached to the base. Then, you have a matching detachable saucer. These pegs are slightly spaced apart, which gives your orchid plenty of drainage and aeration.
Of course, there aren’t any holes because they are built into the design. There are a total of 47 tines, which feature a smooth, rounded top. Therefore, they aren’t sharp and aren’t going to hurt you.
They also flex a bit if you push on them, which makes it easy to get down into the pot if needed. It is made of UV-resistant plastic, and the plant can expand because of its flexibility.
9. Orchid Pot with Saucer White
Orchids don’t necessarily thrive better when they are in a beautiful pot. However, they look so exotic, and it can make them appear even more so when you choose the right container in which to plant them.
This product is white and features a variety of four-leaf ‘flowers’ all over it for proper aeration and airflow. That way, your orchid gets plenty of air inside. Of course, it also means that the plant isn’t going to get too moist or humid, which can kill an orchid.
It also includes a saucer, but it is attached and doesn’t come off. Therefore, you may find that it is best to put something under the container. That way, any excess water that flows out of the saucer is caught and doesn’t damage your furniture.
The saucer also includes a drainage hole for maximum protection. This ensures that you aren’t going to overwater the orchid.
10. Meshpot Clear Plastic Orchid Pots with Holes
Are you looking for a clear, plastic orchid pot? If so, the Meshpot brand might work well. It comes as a three-pack with two 7-inch pots and a 6-inch pot. Plus, they are all made of food-grade PP, which is sturdy and can last up to 10 years outside.
The patented slots are there to guide the growth of the roots. As the orchids grow, the roots can circle the pot, essentially choking the orchid. With this product, the roots grow downwards and out through the vents.
You also get great airflow and drainage with the vents on the sides. There are plenty of vents or slots at the bottom, as well.
With the patented air column in the middle, you get even more airflow for the roots. The raised center increased the ventilation within the soil. This ensures that the roots grow correctly.
How to Plant an Orchid in a Pot?
The first step, when planting orchids in pots, is to pick the type of flower you want. Moth, Cattleya, and Venus versions might be better when you’re learning. Consider an already-blooming plant so that it’s easier to keep alive.
Choose your small clay or plastic pot and ensure that there are plenty of holes in it. That way, the orchid is well-drained and aerated. If you select the one we pick as a winner, you should be fine.
Just make sure there isn’t too much space. Also, the roots should be snug without any bending or twisting.
If you choose a pot with a variety of holes, it is best to use the orchid potting mix. These can include tree fern, fir bark, perlite, or peat moss. You may find it best to ask the gardening center staff when you buy the orchid what is best.
Next, fill the pot with about an inch of foam peanuts. Of course, you’ve got all the slots, but you need to ensure proper drainage. Foam peanuts can help drain excess water away so that the roots don’t rot.
Take your orchid from the container by holding it firmly and wiggling it enough to loosen it. Pull out the orchid carefully so that you don’t damage the roots. Do not force the container off; consider cutting it away from the plant.
Make sure the plant is going to fit into the pot by holding it gently in place. Fill in the pot to cover the orchid’s roots with your growing medium. Make sure that you’re not damaging the roots, but pack it down gently.
Continue filling your pot until the crown of your orchid sits just below the growing medium. This is the space where your roots end up meeting the stalk.
How to Care for Orchids in a Pot?
It’s important that your orchids get about 12 to 14 hours of sunlight each day. Pick sunny spots within your home or outside, such as an east- or south-facing windowsill. Generally, west-facing windows are too warm while north-facing ones are too dark.
Each orchid should come with its recommended amount of sunlight and water. Read the label carefully.
You’re going to water your orchid about once a week, and the less water you put in it, the better. The roots of the orchid can rot if there is too much water within the growing medium. This is because they need more airflow to function well.
Hold your pot under some running water for about three seconds so that the growing medium is drenched. Then, let any extra water drain away before putting it back on the windowsill.
Of course, you should wait to water it again until the growing medium is completely dry. Remember, orchids prefer drought instead of overwatering.
It’s ideal for your home to keep a humidity level of about 60 to 80 percent. This is especially true if your orchid is tropical. Many homes feature humidity levels that are much too low to sustain an orchid, especially during winter.
Therefore, you should move the orchid away from any heating vents and cold drafts. Your plant needs to have moist, warm air in which to survive. Consider putting your orchid in a bathroom or use a humidifier device to keep it the right humidity.
If you dislike the thought of using a humidifier or putting a flower in the bathroom, use a dry well. It’s quite easy to do.
Just get a plastic tray and fill it with plastic lattice or pebbles on top. Fill that try with some water and put your orchid on top of it. This can boost humidity levels appropriately.
It’s ideal to fertilize your orchid every two or three weeks while it is growing. You can find the best fertilizer for orchids online or from a gardening center. Just make sure that you follow all of the directions for use.
You should also prune the orchid when you notice flowers falling off. That way, healthy growth is encouraged. Trim the step about an inch away from the stalk.
That way, you might get a second bloom. Remove any brown or yellow stems and leaves with a sterilized knife so that the orchid continues to grow healthily.
Conclusion
With so many orchid pots from which to choose, it is hard to pick one. Each of the containers mentioned here is ideal for orchids and comes with a variety of features. However, we feel that the best pots for orchids are from the Meshpot brand.
They are a bit bigger than others, but they work well for tall orchids. Plus, you do get two sizes in the three-pack. This also helps you save money if you have multiple plants.
We liked the seemingly endless slots for proper drainage and airflow. The raised center (air column as the company calls it) is also ideal for adequate aeration. Therefore, we think it is one of the best options.
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