Clowsetum - Non-uniform Root Discoloration

[jiblylegs]

Hi all,

On this clowsetum (and I've noticed this with cattleyas as well) I am noticing some discoloration on two roots and it looks awful. It is potted in 100% sphagnum, and I water it with tap water.

You'll notice that for the first picture towards the base of the roots on the left is this odd orange discoloration. The picture on the right shows roots that aren't affected.

I know this is one of those frequent/mundane questions, but any ideas what is causing this and is it harmful? My only inkling of an idea is that it is not okay to even 'pet' some roots. I was sure not to bump these roots, but I have lightly felt/brushed them with my finger. This happened overnight after the first watering. At night it was perfectly white. Then by the morning these two roots were orange and have been progressively turning more orange.

I'm out of ideas. Thanks in advance!

[Roberta]

I don't see a problem. Yes, you shouldn't "pet" the roots. But some of that may just be light exposure. Actually, I think it is a bit soon to be watering. You want roots to be 8 to 10 cm long before watering. Once you get to that point, water water water... you can't overwater these things when they are in rapid growth (in another month or so). And will need fertilizer too, it will be growing very fast (almost like a tomato plant, water and fertilize accordingly) But for now, the new growth needs to get bigger, and with longer roots before you give it significant water, or any fertilizer.

[jiblylegs]

I tried to hold off watering, but I got this one and another from Krull Smith in Florida. It’s actually been out of dormancy since March and the roots are atleast 3in long in the pot. This is my first cattasetinae and the bulbs were looking rather flat. I still have a lot to learn and maybe they could’ve gone longer. I hope I wasn’t too early.

[Roberta]

Plant looks healthy. When it REALLY gets going, you'll see what a beast it can become.

[jiblylegs]

Hi,

I wanted to give an update for anyone who may come across this thread. The two plants are just now starting to hit their stride. The light level is the same as before, but now the roots don't instantly die and become consumed by some orange fungus/bacteria. They are also beginning to leaf out again. I think maybe these seedlings had a rough go at acclimating to my conditions post transport.

[Roberta]

Looking good! You could put some water in that saucer, perhaps. I wonder if you have another growth coming, or perhaps a spike. Time will tell!

[jiblylegs]

I've been watering every two days to keep the spaghnum moist but not soppy to avoid a cyanobacteria outbreak. The entire pot is spaghnum, would these guys benefit sitting in a wet saucer?

[Roberta]

Originally Posted by jiblylegs

I've been watering every two days to keep the spaghnum moist but not soppy to avoid a cyanobacteria outbreak. The entire pot is spaghnum, would these guys benefit sitting in a wet saucer?

Yup. They are thirsty. And if the water is in the saucer (as opposed to saturating the medium) it may help it stay hydrated without creating the toxic environment in the pot, by letting the plant take just what it needs. If the water doesn't get sucked up fast, then maybe the plant doesn't want or need it, in which case you can easily stop.