"Air Orchid" can you trim it?

[Sam Jones]

I have several of these type orchids, and love them. They bloom often and very full. One of them is getting very large, with roots reaching close to 8 feet long and the plant itself almost 3 feet tall. I don't want to hurt this plant but I am running out of options as to hanging it any higher with out renting a climber.

Any suggestions? can I trim the roots? what about the plant should I do anything with it.

Thank you

[snowflake311]

Thats awesome. I don't know what would be best but if that was my plant I would just leave it alone and see what happens. Its growing they way nature made it to grow.

[cbuchman]

These orchids are Vandas and their air roots are how they grow. I would not cut a viable root. It is how the plants takes up its nutrients and cutting off roots could severely impact the health of your plant.

You could try to loop the roots gently. Sometimes, roots are more pliable when they have been soaked in water for 20 mins or so. That could help you shorten the root structure without cutting off any roots.

I only wish i could root Vandas with such a healthy root structure - You are to be envied!