Best way to find new root growth

[zxyqu]

Hello OB people! It has been such a pleasure to find this site, as its truely helped me get going with my new orchid passion.
I really want to switch over my phal's when the last blooms falls off. I'm concerned a little about the media they are in now, but they seem to be doing ok for now. I've read here several times to wait until you see new root growth before repotting in S/H.
My question is, what is the best way to find out if there is new root growth without unpotting the plant. It's in a clear container, but the media is dark, and aside from the green roots, that's all I can see? Should I look for new aerial growth, or is there a good quick way. Also, how long should the new roots be? I figure the shorter the better. Just can't wait to get them in new, and better, homes, but dont want to kill them. Thanks all!

[Zoi2]

You won't have a problem seeing the new roots on a phal. They will start growing from the base of the plant and should be visable above your potting medium. I usually wait until the roots are an inch or so before I repot in s/h. (not aerial roots)
Joann

[zxyqu]

Joann,
So just look for new root growth from the base, then replant the whole base in the LECA, covering the new roots, and go from there. I think I read that right. Thanks!

[Zoi2]

I think you have the idea.
How to pot an Orchid using the Semi-Hydroponic method.
This site might help answer some of your questions.
Joann

[khozmo]

Zoi2,

Quick question. You say not aerial roots. How can I tell the difference. Also how deep should you pot the phal in S/H?

[Zoi2]

Originally Posted by khozmo

Zoi2,

Quick question. You say not aerial roots. How can I tell the difference. Also how deep should you pot the phal in S/H?

Aerial roots grow up towards the ceiling. Once you see your roots growing you'll be able to tell the difference. As far as how deep to pot a phal in s/h, it's the same as in the bark medium, to the base of the plant covering the roots.
Joann

[khozmo]

Zoi2,

I am still quite new to this whole orchid addiction.

I rescued mine from my mothers garden where she puts her orchids to die once they no longer have flowers. So I have no point of reference on how deep to pot them. Should I put media all the way up to the lowest leaves? or how far below the lowest leaf?

Thanks for any pointers.

[Zoi2]

Did you check out the site on How to pot an orchid in semi-hydroponics? There are loads of pictures to help with reference points.
Joann

[Ray]

Back to the original post for a moment - most phals are grown fairly moist anyway, so waiting for new roots is less critical than with some other orchids.

[zxyqu]

Ray,
So you think the switch would be pretty easy for the phals, especially if I can find near-new roots? Just dont want to kill any on the switch over.