It can be a problem for arial roots to rot in the medium, but I have found it is not a problem if they are near the top and/or still get plenty of air. I think they are more likely to rot if they are smothered and can't breath as they are used to being in the air.

One thing i'd like to get other peoples opinion on is when you guys and gals water your phals do you water the aerial roots out the top of the pot or just the ones in the medium? as i always do.

If I am watering at the sink I always run water over the arial roots as well. If I'm filling the pot from a watering can, then tipping out the water a few minutes later then it again depends if I am going to the sink to empty them (if so I poor the water I'm emptying out the pot over the arial roots).

Some of mine are so used to that that the arial roots turn a lovely green when I do, other Phals that had existing arial roots don't seem to absorb as much that way but I still do it.

That's a real beauty. Good luck with it.

Marilyn

Here is a new image of my latest phal

http://i627.photobucket.com/albums/t...0520101241.jpg