When to repot a Phalaenopsis

[camille1585]

First of all, welcome to Orchidboard!

The dangling roots are nothing to worry about, and in fact are perfectly normal for Phals. They're called aerial roots. Phals in the wild grow attached to trees, getting lots of air and moisture around the roots. Since potting isn't 'natural' for them, a lot of Phals grow these aerial roots. Some plants grow them more than others, I have Phals with aerial roots nearly a foot long. You can help these roots along by misting them with water.

As for repotting, if there is no emeregency then generally the best time for repotting is in the spring when the plants are starting to grow again. Phals like to be snug in their pots, so when you repot if the plant can fit in the same pot, then use it again.

Sometimes it's better to repot sooner. Sometimes newly purchased plants don't have very healthy roots, especially the ones potted in sphag. In that case it's better to repot (and clean up the dead roots) ASAP to save the plant.

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