How are my roots? - Orchid Board

Skycat · #1 09-25-2013, 05:00 PM

It's a "Just Add Ice" Phal. I got it yesterday evening, but had to wait till today to repot it because it was already getting dark by the time I got home, and repotting plants is an outside sort of job. So I spent the rest of the night reading stuff on the forums.

I was a bit worried when I read that these usually have root rot, but look at the roots on mine.

I cut off a few that looked like they might be dead, and accidentally de-gloved some that are still white on the inside part. Most of it seems okay, I think? Nothing feels mushy, at least.

cbuchman · #2 09-25-2013, 05:07 PM

There certainly are a lot of roots! Since the roots look so white they really look dehydrated. I recommend that you soak the roots in water until they plump up and turn green.

I don't recommend the just add ice regimen; you can search on the OB for more on this- it has been discussed at length.

Good luck!

Skycat · #3 09-25-2013, 05:31 PM

Thanks.

Yeah, I wasn't planning on watering with ice. I already knew that seemed silly because it doesn't rain ice cubes on them in the wild.

So after I've fattened up the roots, do I put it in the pot right away, or am I supposed to wait, or what? Rot is the thing I'm worried about, and I know orchid roots need a lot of air.

Also, it came potted in bark.

nenella · #4 09-25-2013, 05:52 PM

you need to soak the medium you intend to repot it... it looks like it was in bark. I would soak bark for as long as poss even 48 hrs... and then re pot (after having re -soaked the roots and made the 'green' before hand. An excellent way of knowing when to water and avoid overwatering is by using a skewer in the mix. There are lots of posts on the 'skewer method' I'm sure you will be fine with this! Good luck and keep us posted!

PS: Welcome to OB!

cbuchman · #5 09-25-2013, 06:23 PM

Yes to what Nanella said! You can find some great YouTube videos for repotting Phals.

You are right about needing roots needing air. If you can get a clear plastic pot that is just pig enough to fit the roots that is perfect. the clear pot allows you to check on your root health regularly without disturbing the plant. And you can use the root color (white vs. green) to know when to water.