Brown roots on top of pot
 

My phals are in bark, the roots that are exposed on the top of the bark (as they go down into the bark), seem to turn brown, dry, and shrink. When I got the phals those roots were green when watered, and silver when dry. As time goes on, they turn brown and loose the green. I can see that there is plenty of moisture in the clear pot, so I don't want to water as soon as the top dries. Should I be misting the tops of the pots daily, to keep those roots from drying out? Thanks

Sounds like overwatering. The roots have rotted, and the plant needs to grow new ones. Have you repotted this phal, or did you buy it with silver/green roots in the medium? These are aereal roots and should not be in bark. Aereal roots should be misted but not soaked.

The roots on top of the pot are drying out but the roots on the inside might still be green and functioning. You can add a sphag top coat the next time you water. It will help the exposed roots remain wet longer.

Brooke