Orange old roots on healthy phal

[Mercurianmad]

I just noticed that my oldest and healthiest Phalaenopsis has orange roots at the top of the potting medium. I just recently repaired it it’s got a bunch of healthy green roots no spotting no discoloration on the foliage. Everything looks a bit dry in this picture because it’s almost ready for watering in the next couple of days. The moss is almost dry but still damp in the center.

The pot is full of green roots. The roots at the top of the pot look orange? They are firm though, not papery, with no rotten smell. The plant is currently in bloom. Thoughts?

[Ray]

Frankly, I wouldn't worry about it.

It could be a sign those older roots are failing - for which there is nothing you can do, or it could be pigmentation picked up from potting media components - again, no worries.

[Mercurianmad]

Thank you!

[aliceinwl]

Many of my Phals have a mix of root colors. Color seems to be affected by light exposure, moisture regime the particular root experiences, age of the root, and staining from media. If they’re firm and the plant looks healthy, I agree that there’s nothing to worry about.