Winter Phrag Care?

[jeremyinsf]

I see a fair bit of surface roots there. And for a plant that age and size, in a pot that size, I'm going to guess the bottom is totally covered in roots, and the plant probably will thrive exponentially if it gets a good re-pot. I have a few plants (phrags) I got like that this year and was surprised to see what was under the surface!

[Vanda lover]

I have a prag but I don't know what kind. I got it as a seedling 7 years ago and it is finally going to bloom. I have been treating it the same in summer as I do in the winter. For about 2 years it has been in s/h in lava rock and it loves it. It does seem to prefer a little less fertilizer than my other orchids. Our water here is fine strait from the tap for orchids. The grower couldn't remember which 2 phrags he crossed, so it will be exciting to see what it will look like.

[CariC]

Thank you, Jeremy. Shouldn't I wait until spring to repot? Or you think it needs it now?

[CariC]

So I repotted the phrag, and the roots weren't what I expected. They didn't look unhealthy exactly, but they didn't look happy either. I've repotted them in a clear pot with a net core to allow for air movement. I also included a bit of live sphagnum moss, since it's a boggy orchid. I know I'll have to water more often with the net core, but my other orchids seem to love it, so I thought I'd try.

[jeremyinsf]

They might have been that way from sitting for quite a while. I had a phrag besseae rescue I did (working on) this year that was in the same situation. And I did what you did. And it's coming back to life and growing new roots and the leaves are getting bigger. Do you happen to have any seaweed or other root stimulant you can give it? I soaked mine in KLN when I transplanted it, now I have some new white roots.

No matter what, it sounds like you are on the right track. If the roots weren't great in the old media/pot, I'm sure they will be happier with what you have done with them. Good luck!

[CariC]

Ooh, I'll try that the next time I fertilize, Jeremy. I spread about a tbsp of earthworm castings on the potting media today, as well. Thank you!

[jeremyinsf]

Sure!

Keep us posted please!

[Vanda lover]

Seaweed really does help the roots of orchids. I used it all this summer and I can really see a difference.

[CariC]

Hi everyone. I just thought I'd give you an update. After repotting the phrag in a net core pot and changing out the water more often, there's been significant root growth, and it's now working on a new leaf. Thank you all for your advice. I really appreciate your help!

[jeremyinsf]

Thanks for the update... so glad it's going well! Post a picture or two down the road if you think of it.

Happy growing!