shrivelling roots

[2orchid]

I have this one orchid where a bunch of my roots are shrivelling up.

It is only the second one I ever repotted and I'm not sure the orchid mix (bark, coal, and those funny little white rock things) was packed tightly enough around some of the roots. I also think some of the roots that had originally been in the sphagnum moss before I repotted may have ended up in the open air.

Is this really unhealthy for the orchid? Is this happening because it's not getting enough water?
Any thoughts I on how I can help keep this guy happy?

[JMN16150]

I've honestly don't notice anything different with my phal with shriveled roots. It got shriveled, because I forgot to water it on its schedule. The roots tend to become shriveled because you don't water it enough. It's a sign that it wants more water. Sadly, my phal's roots are still shriveled, even after being watered on schedule for weeks. BTW at first, it may be necessary to water it more than you think, as bark tends to repel water at first instead of soaking it in.

[wintergirl]

The green in the other roots shows there is enough water. When you repot sometimes roots die, but they make new ones. Is there good drainage in your pot?

[2orchid]

thanks for the info, I guess it's just normal. Yes the pot has good drainage.

Would you suggest cutting off the shrivelled section of roots or just leaving them?

[wintergirl]

Originally Posted by 2orchid

thanks for the info, I guess it's just normal. Yes the pot has good drainage.

Would you suggest cutting off the shrivelled section of roots or just leaving them?

You could trim up the dried ends but don't cut into the green or live part. It is best to sanitize your shears by pouring rubbing alcohol on them and let them dry before use. (or soak the tips x 10 min in rubbing alcohol).

[dangerouseddy]

Originally Posted by 2orchid

thanks for the info, I guess it's just normal. Yes the pot has good drainage.

Would you suggest cutting off the shrivelled section of roots or just leaving them?

roots not in medium have a tendency to shrivel with low humidity, nothing to worry about.

don't cut off any roots that go down into the medium in the pot, you can trim the shrivelled ends of roots not in the medium but I just leave them on.

although mine don't get that bad now I have a humidifier with a humidistat and keep the growing area at 50% humidity.