How to Transplant a Broken Orchid

Wash the orchid’s new planter with warm running water to remove any dirt or debris. Clean its surface with rubbing alcohol to sanitize it and allow it to dry for five minutes.

Place about 1 inch of orchid potting mixture into the bottom of the broken orchid’s new planter. Both the potting mixture and orchid planter should be available from plant nurseries or orchid supply stores. Use a pot 1 inch in diameter bigger than the last pot if the orchid needs a larger container.

Remove your broken orchid from its current container carefully. If the root ball is stuck inside, break the container with a hammer or cut it away with scissors. To break a container, wrap it in a towel, lay it on its side and strike it with a hammer once. If the orchid’s container is already broken, skip this step.

Dust off old orchid potting mixture, taking care not to damage the plant’s roots. Place the root ball into the new container. Gently add orchid potting mixture around all sides, holding the broken plant in place. It should not move within the container.

Moisten the potting mixture with a bit of water if it is completely dry. Allow the broken orchid to settle into its new container for 12 hours.

Sanitize a pair of sharp scissors with rubbing alcohol and allow them to air dry for five minutes. Cut off the broken area of the orchid, straight across. Place a dab of ground cinnamon on the exposed surface to help prevent infection. Avoid moving or disturbing the orchid for the next several months as you continue to care for it. If you are unsure of how to tend it, speak with an expert at your local nursery; each orchid species requires different care.