Enc Mabel Kanda

[gardenguysorchids]

This is one of my favorite orchids. The spike in bloom has 16 buds and flowers on it and there is even a larger spike forming. It is presently in a 4 inch pot and begging to be repotted which i plan to do after it blooms. I would appreciate any info on how to do this since it has such a large root mass. I am scared to attempt it but I know it must be done. I had planned on repotting it when I bought it last fall but it started to spike before I got to it. Because of the root mass I submerge the roots in water twice a week and mist them several times a week.

[gardenguysorchids]

Also what is the best growing medium for these?

[walingwaling]

sorry bill, cant advise you on the medium, but a helluva plant you got there, nice!!!

[jeffrey6115]

When I repotted my Epicyclia Serena O'Neil (Enc. Mabel Kanda x Enc. cordigera) I did quite the hack job on the roots. More were dead than I thought. It did an amazing come back with the growth of a new lead and bloomed the following season just fine. I use a large chunk bark, charcoal, and pearlite mix. Use the basic rule of thumb when repotting. Enough room for 2 years growth.

[Brutal_Dreamer]

..... I use a large chunk bark, charcoal, and pearlite mix. Use the basic rule of thumb when repotting. Enough room for 2 years growth.

I would agree. I think Enc's like cattleyas and cymbidiums like to be potted tightly too.

Cheers,
BD

[Halloamey]

Great looking blooms !

[rwf]

Oh...to have such problems What a wonderful plant! Good luck.

[espranch]

My Mabel Kanda is potted in a tree fern pot with small pebbles to keep it up-right. It likes to dry out a bit between waterings, so this suits it just fine!
Goes to show you...orchids will thrive in just about anything, if their needs are met. (water, fertilizer, light)... Betty