Cymbidium, to trim or NOT to trim 1/3 bottom root mass before S/H potting.

[empiref]

Hello all.

My question is simple, I moved one Cym today into S/H using Hydroton as a medium, I cut the bottom 1/3 of the root mass in order to clean the old medium as much as possible because the toots were to tightly packed together, and in order to loosen up the roots. (as recommended by Cym Ladye in her BASIC REPOTTING PROCEDURE FOR CYMBIDIUM ORCHIDS .pdf sheet)

Is this the correct method, or should the root mass stay untouched when transferring Cyms into S/H

Thank you.

[Ray]

The fact that it's going into S/H culture is irrelevant. The plant will need to replace its root system anyway.

However, I would think that undamaged (OK - minimally damaged) roots would support the plant better while it does. Just be certain that none of the roots are potted in the reservoir, but kept above it. The new roots will grow into it eventually, but that's OK.

[empiref]

Originally Posted by Ray

The fact that it's going into S/H culture is irrelevant. The plant will need to replace its root system anyway.

However, I would think that undamaged (OK - minimally damaged) roots would support the plant better while it does.

Thank you Ray,

Here's my before and after pics of my first Cym transfer into Semi-Hydro. I have 2 Phals, 1 Oncidium, 2 Pleiones and 1 Calanthe in Semi-Hydro (Hydroton) and they love it.

BEFORE



AFTER



and here are the Cyms that acquired last week.

[magicatt]

Just wanted to say your growing space looks very healthy and well tended. I admire that.

[Zoi2]

Are you actually growing your cym in S/H culture or just using hydroton in a standard pot?
Joann

[empiref]

Originally Posted by magicatt

Just wanted to say your growing space looks very healthy and well tended. I admire that.

Thank you Stephanie!

[empiref]

Originally Posted by Zoi2

Are you actually growing your cym in S/H culture or just using hydroton in a standard pot?
Joann

Joann,

Yes, I am growing my Sym in a S/H medium using a standard pot, because I was having trouble with algae in clear pot with my other orchids.