I am extremely new to this wonderful world of orchids!
I lusted after the 'Elegant Orchids" sold here in Melbourne at local florists but was concerned about their longevity, after all I had always been lead to believe that orchids are finicky plants.
After a lot of deliberation and maybe not quite enough research, I ventured to a specialst orchid nursery and purchased a Phalaenopsis King Cav purple Queen and a small mericlone Dtps.
Now, I have had them for nearly a month and the little baby phal is going great guns, I have slipped it out of its spag to take a cheeky peek at the roots to check everything is ok.
The mature plant is a different matter...
It is potted in what I believe is either coconut or bark with styrofoam pellets in the base. I have watered it twice since I got it, ensure everything drained well.
It had roots growing out the bottom of the pot that extended for over 15 cm. These have now dried up and turned hollow. I thought this might have been the plant sulking after leaving its greenhouse but now I am getting concerned...
Roots that are air exposed - not 'real' aerial roots but ones that travel along the surface of the medium started to get dry looking patches on them. I worried that my humidity tray solution was not enough and misted them. Now they are definitely hollow but the root extending further is still green and turgid.
The plant is in bloom and has what I believe to be lots of viable roots left, should I repot?
If I trim the 'dodgy' roots how far back do I cut them? If I repot what is a good medium ( I know this is a loaded question) but Melbourne has proper cold winters/hot summers.
Basically, what am I doing wrong/what should I do?
This is keeping me awake at night
I have included some images so you can see what I am dealing with here...
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
phal roots drying/rotting?
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