Phal orchid repotting/root care question. - Orchid Board

CherylT68 · #1 11-12-2013, 05:01 PM

Im a def beginner caring for a phal orchid. I've had a couple in the past meet an untimely demise, so I'm really trying this time. I got it a month or so ago, experienced bloom blast, cut the spikes back. The pamphlet from the grower stated repotting wasn't needed for a year, however, there are roots everywhere, exposed. I really feel it needs repotting. Some of the original bark was knocked out as my son tipped it over. My question, will I need to trim It's roots? Will I know what to trim or prune? I know all utensils must be sterile. Thanks, in advance, for any advice.

RandomGemini · #2 11-12-2013, 05:20 PM

Okay, sounds like you are REALLY new. First of all:

Second of all. Relax. You're in the right place!

You will need to make a couple more posts to the forum so that you can post pictures. Just put a couple more posts in this thread, and then the forum should allow you to upload a couple of images. Without pictures, we really can't advise you. It sounds to me like it MIGHT need to be repotted, but I would like to see it so I can advise you more specifically on what's going on with your plant.

WhiteRabbit · #3 11-12-2013, 08:08 PM

To get you started, I'd recommend reading the first few to several pages of this thread: http://www.orchidboard.com/community...ends-here.html

Aerial roots can be potted when you repot, or can be left to go everywhere

I'd definitely want to see what roots in the pot look like before even considering cutting aerial roots; myself, I'd not recommend cutting any good roots in any case....

http://www.orchidboard.com/community...ng-photos.html

LadySoren · #4 11-12-2013, 10:22 PM

Roots that still have green/yellow should be kept even if they look like they broken in places, they do snap upon potting. Phal's grow on trees and send out roots under moss and over trunks, they do what they want and it is good to let them. They want air, so let them. Nothing bad.
A bad root is a mushy one or black. Brown but form, from what I can tell is fine. Some turn brown from fertilizer and/or absorb color from what they're planted in.