Quote:
Originally Posted by Sharyn  I’ve started this thread regarding the phalaenopsis and these top roots growing out of the pot so we can all learn more and what to do about them. Only two of my Phals have this situation. We’ve learned from Kevin that these roots are not normal - that the plant is seeking the right kind of environment... |
I think there's been a small misunderstanding regarding my root comments (from the post titled
a question and some pictures). It was not my intent to say that the Phals roots that grow out of the pot are abnormal, but rather to correct the misnomer that they are 'aerial' roots. There were comments in that thread (and in other threads) that implied that Phals put out 2 different kinds of roots, 'normal' terrestrial roots and aerial roots. This is not the case. The roots we have growing out of the pot and wandering around are the same kind of root we have growing down into the pot. They may look a little different because of what they are exposed to but they are the same.
Orchid roots seek out something to hold onto, moisture, and nutrients that will sustain the plant. It is my opinion that they go looking outside the pot if they're not finding what they're looking for in the pot. This is just my opinion and I recognize that others may have another opinion on this (afterall I am primarily a Paph grower and have only 5 Phals). I do not believe these wandering roots are abnormal, on the contrary they're doing exactly what they normally do, go looking for the things they want. I do not think they should be cut off unless they are clearly dead. When I repot my Phals I put them down in the mix (gently to avoid snapping them off).
Thanks for letting me clarify. If anyone has questions about my post, let me know.