Encyclia Radiata Ching Hua

[brownthumber]

I need help encouraging my Encyclia radiate ching hua to grow new roots. The existing roots look like they are shriveled and dying if not dead. The plant has been planted in a rooat with bark as it was when I bought it. I have seen online that these plants have done well mounted. Is that the best route to take or is there a way to encourage this plant to produce new root growth while planted? I really want this plant to live and could use all advice offered. I suppose it is worth mentioning that the green foliage and stem are extremely healthy looking.

[WhiteRabbit]

I'm not too familiar with this specific specie - did have one for a while at one time. But in general, sympodial orchids usually only grow roots from new growth. So, you need to wait for new growth if there isn't any yet. I do have a different cockle shell type encyclia which has some small new growth but no new roots yet. But I'm guessing it's about that time of year for them...

[RosieC]

I agree with Sonya, I've not grown this one, but my cocleata like other sympodial orchids only grows roots with new growths. So I guess the question is more of a general culture one, to get it to grow.

I'm not an expert on these sorts, but they do tend to grow more spring and summer than at this time of year. That being the case, warmth and trying to extend the day length with lights might help, but I'm not sure.

[brownthumber]

Ok guys thanks for the help! I am not sure if this little plant will make it until spring or summer, but I will try!

[silken]

Start using some seaweed extract when you water. It may encourage root growth. I only have one encyclia and it's not this one. But I have new shoots off of many old roots on some of my cattleyas after starting with seaweed. I know I have been pushing seaweed a lot lately, but it is my new go to when roots are ailing. I use clear pots a lot so I can see old long brownish roots and in the middle of their length are new shoots of lovely white roots with green growing tips! I can't believe some of the growth!

[brownthumber]

I have never heard of that! I will try it? Out of curiousity where did you get yours? I am not sure where I would find it, as I have never heard of it

[silken]

It seems easiest to find some form of it in hydroponic stores. And First Ray's sells various forms of it too. He has a website and posts on this forum.

Just to back up what I am saying, I just took two photos of a Cattleya that I re-potted in July. The photo shows two points where the older root sent off a new shoot as a branch. Also already the roots are escaping out the bottom of the pot so I may have to re-pot again soon!

[brownthumber]

wow it does seem to be working nicely! I will be on the look out for some! If I cant find it soon I will see about first ray. Thanks for the pictures!

[silken]

Good luck with your plant.

[RosieC]

I agree about the seaweed extract. Ray has had good results with it, which is why he now sells it and he's determined that the ones high in auxins are the ones that give the best results. Others here (including me) have had good results as well, and from what I've ready I would recommend looking at the Kelpmax and Solo products that Ray sells. He's based them on what has worked for his own growing.