Triming vanda roots

[kckencharles]

Hello:

Is is a good idea t trim the roots of vandas. Mine have grown so long that they are on the ground and starting to grow in. What is the solution? I cant raise them any more

[Chubidubi]

I did that once and ruined the vanda. It hasn't bloomed yet in over 2 years. I think It hates me for doing that to her . Just my is to leave well enough alone. I'm not a vanda expert (as you have noticed) but I know someone with better knowledge will help out.

[Chubidubi]

By the way to the OB .

[cb977]

I've top-cut my vandas but haven't cut any of the roots...but I have seen articles where they vandas are being cut down in nature by workers using machetes.

This is also a topic we discussed on the board a while ago, I found the thread for you...take a look, it's interesting stuff:
http://www.orchidboard.com/community...re-i-went.html

I think it all depends on how daring you are

[JennS]

I would be afraid to trim the roots, but I did read that post which made me re-think it. If possible, I would rather soak the plant for a while and try to tie the roots up some. I have heard of people tying them in a knot, but I am not sure how this is done. I would not want to damage all of the roots. maybe you could try the trimming method with one vanda and carefully watch it to see how it reponds. Let us know what you decide.

[dgenovese1]

kckencharles,
I don't trim mine, although I have seen others do it...it makes me kringe
What I do with my long roots is entwine them together in a loop. I make sure I do it after watering them so that they are flexible and don't break. So far it's working well, even with my bigger plants. Healthy roots make happy plants, and happy plants make more flowers.

[addictedcountryman]

David- could you post pictures? I would love to see a very happy and root-bound vanda.

[Don Perusse]

I also read an article, along with pictures, on how in Thailand they take a machete and cut off the roots. I don't have a machete but I do have shears and have done exactly that. Once they get to the 3 ft. stage I just cut them off. Did a mokara the same way. No harm done, they just produce more roots higher up. Do during growing season and not winter time when they are less active. Good luck.

[dgenovese1]

Originally Posted by addictedcountryman

David- could you post pictures? I would love to see a very happy and root-bound vanda.

Hey Abby,
Here's a couple of pics I snapped for you. I think pic one demonstrates the technique I use moreso than the second one, but I'm including both for you. The top of the second plant is actually about 4 & 1/2 feet tall; only the bottom with kiekis is showing.

[Don Perusse]

I guess if you have a lot of room like David it's okay to let them grow wild. I like a more orderly fashion so I can get more orchids in the same amount of space.