How do I separate phals in compot?

[caseydoll]

I recently purchased about 3 phals that are growing together in a 4 inch pot. They are definately big enough to be put in separate pots but upon unpotting I see there is such a big mass of roots that I have no clue how to unattach them. I don't know if their roots are really tangled or if there is something connecting them. I have no experience with this sort of thing so as I type they are sitting in a bucket waiting for me. I don't know if I should cut all the roots I think are connecting them or what because I can't really see much with all the green roots in the way. Or should I just forget it and keep them potted together? Please help!!!

Thanks!
Sarah

[slipperfreak]

The only way to do this safely is to take your time and be really careful. You want to damage as few roots as possible. Sometimes doing this with wet roots is a little easier. Just use your hands and try to untangle them as gently as possible. It's taken me over an hour to do this sort of thing before.

[Ross]

I agree. Soak the roots before you start to make sure they are really flexible, then gently tweese them apart. Minutes or hours isn't the issue. You don't want to rip them apart.

[cb977]

Agreed...the best tools for this job are your fingers.
Don't be scared...just be gentle

[esungirl]

I dont know if anyone else has done this but I seperate them in a mixing bowl of water, it kinda helps the roots float apart.