How to: divide upside down orchids

 

Graham’s upside-down orchid (Stanhopea tigrina) has grown old and unproductive, and this year treated us all with only five flower spikes, instead of the usual 30!



We checked it out and found the basket lining had disintegrated and the pine bark mix had completely decomposed. 



It was time to divide and conquer!



Method

Halve the plant by forcing it apart with two garden forks. 

Trim the roots. 

Line a wire basket with sheets of paper bark (this allows the flower buds to press through). 

Fill basket with orchid potting mix and water in.

 

  

  

Photo - Linda Ross

 

Text: Graham Ross

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Author: Graham Ross

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