Orchid with only 3 aerial roots and all other roots rotted

[klauts]

Hi everyone i was wondering if someone could give me some help. I recently bought a phalaenopsis in flower and decided to repot it because it was in really compact pure sphagnum moss and when i got the plant out all of the roots were rotted except for 3, 1 inch aerial roots. i cut off all the rotted roots and suspended the plant in a baby food jar with a tiny bit of water on the bottom. the orchid's roots are a couple mm from the water and the jar is full of condensation so i think its humid enough. does anyone have any other recommendations to try and keep this orchid alive? thank in advance

[tucker85]

The roots should continue to grow in that set up. If you notice some growth, you can mist a light concentration of fertilizer on the roots occasionally. When you get enough roots going, plant it in a pot like you normally would.

[Cym Ladye]

PLANT IT! Put the roots in a small pot of fine bark or other well draining media. It should be just fine!

While you are waiting for the roots to grow, read the sticky at the top of this Beginner forum on "The Phal abuse ends here". It should answer a lot of your questions.

CL

[Stray59]

I hope you dust any cuts with a fungicide or at least cinnamon. You are needing to place this plant in an environment that can induce fungus, so be sure you are preparing for this. Also, I agree - if you have three roots, I would plant it. Even if they are small, the constant, even moisture of the planting mix will 'pull' the roots out and aid them in getting started. Be sure you sterilize your mix before you plant. I always just microwave a bowl of the damp mixture for about 3-4 minutes then let it cool to room temp.
You might also look into a transplanting fert., something with B1 or B2 in it; I use a brand called Super Thrive and it seems to really help with aiding in transplant stress; I soak the plants in a solution of it, with a fungicide added (I use Captan), for about 10 minutes. I also use some of the solution to dampen my soil mix so the roots have access to the fert longer and mold does not get started.
As your plant has already experienced root rot, I would be careful with the watering. The first 20 - 30 days or so, I would mist it regularly and often, rather than water it. Until the roots become fully active in their growth, water will only rot them.
Best of luck - Keep us updated!
Steve