Zygopetalum Roots

[Shiffdaddy]

I recently received a zygopetalum orchid from orchid.com (maybe not the best idea to order from mail.) but it seems very healthy. The only thing is that the roots look kinda strange. They are kind of a mix of green and areas of white. It doesnt look like a fungus at all, but i'm worried about it. I've been letting it dry out pretty well but not all the way so i dont think its rot. Any suggestions?

[RosieC]

Are you able to get a photo, that might help understand what you mean.

I think Zygo roots are generally more white anyway, but you might be meaning something different to that.

[zxyqu]

I agree, pics will be a big help here. Some of my Zygo's roots are only green at the tip, even when wet, so tough to judge without a gander. Hopefully you can post a pic, and your growing media.

[Shiffdaddy]

Here is one picture. I hope this helps

[Zoi2]

It is kind of hard to tell if your roots are healthy in the root ball but they don't look bad. In my experience, zygos do not like to go dry.
Joann

[zxyqu]

Well I think I see the areas you are wondering about. But first, those roots look really good. You've got a stray dead root here and there, but who doesn't. The green areas I see look like normal water contact points. When water hits most orchid roots, they go green for a while. Also, I can't tell for sure, but it looks like there is probably some algae growing which could contribute to the "greenery." It's not harmful, but can be removed if you want. Hope this helps, but I dont think you should be concerned.
Depending on the size of the orchid, you may be due for a pot-up given how rootbound the plant looks.

[silken]

I'll take those roots any day!

[DavidCampen]

The white is velamen, it is a normal feature of orchid roots.
Orchid roots with velamen

[Shiffdaddy]

yay glad my roots arent crappy! I get very stressed out over plant growth as you can tell haha! Attached is the whole plant. Seems like it has plenty of room in the top of the pot for new growth. Repot or no?

[Zoi2]

The plant looks very nice, the size of pot is probably ok, does it have good drainage? I personally can't grow in moss so I would suggest you repot in a different media, but use what ever you are comfortable with.
Joann