Roots - in or out?
 

Here is a conundrum: I have this Phal that I would like to get out of this goofy pot with holes - only because I think all those roots coming out of the holes somehow look creepy - and put it into a clear pot that I've been using for almost all my orchids.

The thing is, I've heard that once roots are aerial, they cannot become terrestrial. Does that mean I should just cut all those roots outside the holes off?? Or, can I successfully put them in a potting mix? I use a nice, loose mix of CHC and charcoal for most of my chids, adding a little sphag for those who like it a bit moister and this seems to be doing well.

I just don't know what to do with those roots. I really need to repot because the mix is breaking down. Help!

PS: Before you all think I'm an orchid heretic, I really do LOVE aerial roots. I just don't love them poking out of pot holes.

You don't want to cut them off. Just put them into the pot; they will adapt.

In my experience, you can pot the aerial roots and they'll do fine in an open medium. So that roots are more pliable, less breakable, I soak the plant in its old pot before removing/repotting.

I do not cut off those roots too..they are happy like that. I will just find another container that will fit them in..or if you have the space to mount it, maybe you can mount the Phal.

Thanks, all. Tarev, nah, I mounted everything when I started growing. Waaayyy too much attention needed, since I don't have a greenhouse. I will just put them in a bigger pot and hope they adapt.

I also have a similar Phal with roots growing out of those holes..and I plan to move them to another container soon...just lazy right now to do it.:biggrin: