Should I repot this Phal?

[CaptFrank]

Should I repot so the material covers the roots?

[Izzie]

Being aerial roots, I don't know for sure- hopefully others will speak up.
I'd think they wouldn't be fond of being in media if they've grown tailored to open-air culture.

[dounoharm]

yes repot...put the entire root mass into large loose bark mix...there will be air spaces in a large loose mix that will allow the roots to acclimate to the new surroundings....they will function quite well....and the plant will make new ariel roots....use the smallest pot you can get the mass of roots in....shake the bark down into the mass of roots....

[Izzie]

Originally Posted by dounoharm

yes repot...put the entire root mass into large loose bark mix...there will be air spaces in a large loose mix that will allow the roots to acclimate to the new surroundings....they will function quite well....and the plant will make new ariel roots....use the smallest pot you can get the mass of roots in....shake the bark down into the mass of roots....

As I said, I'm not always sure! Thanks for the clarification/info.

[Singingirl96]

Of Course!

[Junebug]

Originally Posted by CaptFrank

Should I repot so the material covers the roots?

Wow! That's a lot of aerial roots. Have you thought of growing your Phal on a mount? Phals grow very well when they're mounted and if you mount them sideways or upside down you'll never be bothered with crown rot. Your plant would probably adjust rapidly because so many roots are already exposed.

On the flip side, your roots might die from rot if you bury them because they're accustomed to growing exposed. If you decide to pot you're Phal it would be wise to water sparingly until it acclimates.

[CaptFrank]

Thank you all for your help.