Pot Depth Matters: How to Choose the Right Height for Your Orchid

The depth of your orchid pot directly impacts root health. Here’s a simple guide to pick the right pot depth based on whether your orchid is epiphytic (grows on trees) or terrestrial (grows in soil).
Epiphytic Orchids (e.g., Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium): Use Shallow Pots
Pot Depth Recommendation:
4–6 inches (10–15 cm) deep; max 8 inches (20 cm) for tall varieties.

Why Shallow?
Their roots grow sideways (not down), so shallow pots mimic their natural tree/rock habitat.
Deep pots trap water at the bottom, causing roots to rot from lack of air.

Terrestrial Orchids (e.g., Cymbidium, Paphiopedilum): Use Deep Pots
Pot Depth Recommendation:
8+ inches (20+ cm) deep; 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) for tall varieties like standard Cymbidiums.

Why Deep?
Their fleshy roots grow downward and need space to stretch—shallow pots make roots curl and stunt growth.

Simple Rules to Remember:
Epiphytic = Shallow pots (4–6 inches): Roots spread wide, hate deep water traps.
Terrestrial = Deep pots (8+ inches): Roots grow down, need room to stretch.
Next: Drainage holes—how many and where to keep roots healthy, no matter the orchid type!