New Potting Technique, Root Health

[Douglas Scanlan]

I have been experimenting with a potting technique I thought of, using transparent glass floral stones in a wire basket. My intention is to create an environment for the roots more like their natural habitat- light exposure for the roots, open air flow, and the ability air dry after watering within one or two days- just like in the wild if the roots were rained on. The first pic I have attached here is of the potted plant so you can see what I am describing. I have to water much more frequently this way since the glass retains no moisture, but also my apartment is at 70% humidity. I water at least every other day.
Here is the problem: My roots are not doing well. One of my Phals potted this way finally lost its blossoms (after 6 months!) so today I cut the spike and pulled the roots out of the glass to inspect them. The last three pics I attached here are of the roots before clean up, and after clean up, as well as a close up fo the dead clippings. I am baffled because I don't understand how the roots could have rotted in this potting system and I'm not even certain that rotting is the problem. The problem roots look more like they are dry and withered rather than rotten, but they were cerainly exposed to plenty of moisture. Can anyone tell from these photos what the problem really is?