Roots

[Charlene]

I just purchased a phal and since it barely had any potting mixture I decided to repot it. I'm a little concerned because the root system doesn't look good and the stem looks dark. I couldn't see this when I purchased it. Will I be grieving again for another plant lost? Thanks.

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

It's better if you post a pic. The subtle nuances of the problem don't need too much verbal explanation then.

It makes for a much faster diagnosis and accurate or precise assessment, with a varied amount of advice that is much more applicable to your situation.

From the current description, it sounds like it could be a couple things, but I don't know what to tell you quite yet, because I could guess wrong and tell you something that doesn't apply and/or could possibly be basically useless.

[Charlene]

Sorry it took me so long to get back. These are the best I could do in the way of pictures. I know they aren't too clear.

[Charlene]

Not sure what happened so I'll try this again. These are the best I could do with the pictures. Hope this helps.

[tucker85]

I think you have a good chance that the plant will survive. You can trim off any obviously rotton or dead roots. Leave any roots that you're not sure are dead. Repot it and care for it as you would any other phals and I think it will probably be fine.

[Zoi2]

I agree with tucker, the roots don't look that bad and the plant should do fine with some TLC.
Joann

[Charlene]

Thanks all. Guess we will just wait and see. So hard to tell. I broke down last night and purchased another Phal. It is blue and absolutely gorgeous. I just couldn't resist. Thanks for your help.

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

Just wanted you to know, should anything happen that changes the color of the blooms in the future...

Naturally speaking, there are currently no such things as naturally occurring true blue Phals. If the ones you have are true blue, or aqua blue, those are not the flower's natural pigments. The flowers are most likely dyed that color.

So if it does end up reverting back to its natural pigmentation (whatever they may be), the flower's color change doesn't necessarily mean there's anything wrong with the plant.

Just a heads up.

[Charlene]

Thanks for the heads up--but I am heartbroken. However, this too shall pass. I'll just enjoy the blooms til their roots grow out...