What's the best potting mix for Phalaenopsis Orchids?

Have you ever wondered if there is a special potting soil for orchids? The answer is yes, but how do you know which kind is the best?

If you grow orchids indoors, there will be times you need to repot them. Here's a look at the best potting mixes and why.

Jump to:

• Top 3 Best Orchid Potting Mix
• What's so special about Orchid soil/medium?

Top 3 Best Orchid Potting Mix

1. Perfect Plants Orchid Potting Mix

This orchid mix has four components (charcoal, sponge rock, pine bark, and coconut chips) that help your orchid drain properly and prevent root rot.

They also make their orchid mix in small batches which ensures freshness.

What we like:

• It has charcoal which helps drain water from your orchid's roots, it helps eliminate odors, and can absorb salt residue.
• This potting mix has four high-quality components what are great for draining and letting the roots grow.

2. rePotme Phalaenopsis orchid potting mix

The rePotme orchid mix also has four components (bark, sponge rock, sphagnum moss, and hydroton).

According to rePotme, the Hydroton in their mix is a light-weight expandable clay aggregate.

What we do like:

• It's made with a Monterey pine bark.
• It's hand blended daily so when you order, you are getting a fresh mix.

What we don't like:

• This potting mix has sphagnum moss, which can hold in moisture. It does seem to be used sparingly though.
• More expensive than the other two potting mixes.

3. Jim's Orchid Supplies Potting Mix

Our third and final favorite potting mix for orchids is from Jim's Orchid Supplies. This potting mix has three components (hydrocorn, coconut husk chips, and charcoal).

Like the hydroton, this hydrocorn is just expanded clay pellets!

What we like:

• It has charcoal which helps drain water, eliminate odors, and absorb salt residue.
• It doesn't have sphagnum moss. This holds moisture in, and can cause orchid root rot.

What we don't like:

• They only offer it in one size (¼ cubic feet).

What's so special about Orchid soil/medium?

It's actually not soil at all but a mixture of bark, sponge rock, and charcoal (at least the good ones).

Unlike regular potting soil, orchid potting mix is designed for adequate water drainage.

Orchids can easily develop root rot, so they need a planting medium that is designed to drain and absorb excess water.

You might also enjoy: Beginners guide to Orchid Care