What is the typical lifetime of a Phal root?

[cythaenopsis]

Yes, I've been trying to target the exposed roots with mist. Also, if the surface moss has dried a bit but it's still damp below, I may spritz a little water where roots are underneath.

But thanks for the warning about crown rot. I can see a little of that happening in my 2nd photo, along the edge of the leaf base. I'll have to be careful not to get it wet often. Would it be a good idea to trim away a little of the leaf there?

I have also heard that humidity trays aren't that effective, unless the area is pretty well contained and gets good sunlight. I'll definitely look into getting a humidifier for the upcoming drier months.

[Paul Mc]

Yeah, the issue with any sort of humidity is how much open space there is. What little will evaporate will dissapate into the rest of the room unless it's contained. Honestly, I just use the trays to catch water when I water them. The one's that are more sensitive I keep in either a terrarium or do special things to them to help them along.

[tucker85]

I only mist the aerial roots when the medium is getting dry. If the medium is visably moist I don't mist the roots. I'm not trying to raise the humidity, but I'm trying to give the phal a little moisture while letting the medium dry out to prevent root rot. The velamen that covers the roots is like a sponge. If the medium is pretty dry, a little moisture misted onto the roots will be soaked up in the velamen and keep the roots plump and the plant hydrated until the next watering. It works for me but anyone who uses another system that works for them should stick with it.