Catesetums are growing beyond pot, Some roots are turning brown. Can I repot?

[flowergardengirl]

I purchased two catasetums last week. They are/were in bloom so I did not want to repot them. I am trying my best to not handle them too much (since they are in my quarantine area). However, the roots that have managed to grow beyond the pot are turning brown. I was thinking of slipping them quickly out of their pot and into something a little larger with some moss. Will I hurt them if I do so? We are in the full blast of Florida heat.

[Louis_W]

I wouldn't. Looks like the plant has a great root system. Best not to mess with it even if it means loosing a few roots. Bigger pot next season but your plant looks great

[WaterWitchin]

I wouldn't unpot now. But you could always put a slightly larger pot or saucer or something under the pot that has sphag in it. Not jam-packed tight, just enough to surround the roots with more moisture and humidity while it's still in grow mode.

[isurus79]

I would leave them in their current situation and repot in January. Looks like some really healthy plants!

[Roberta]

First, Welcome!

Depending on your conditions (where you live), if humid and you water regularly (these like to stay wet while in active growth) you don't have to do anything. Happy plants. If you're in an area where it's dry, do what WaterWitchin suggests, just drop the pots in to larger pots and fill in with medium around the sides. Either way, during active growth they need lots of water, lots of light, and heat. (In most places they are better off outside than in the cool, shady house) Don't worry that they "look crowded" ... these plants don't care about being rootbound, They may even send roots upward (bird's nest roots). Perfectly normal behavior. But don't even think about repotting until they're dormant next winter.

[estación seca]

They love hot humid weather like summer in Florida, especially hot nights. Just be sure it doesn't dry out.