awwwww ! i was getting all excited for nothing then, allthough good roots and leaves are needed for good foliage. i have never had roots go near vertical before, growing side ways and out of the pot yes , vertical no, not until now, i was addament they were spikes !
never mind, with the knowledge i have obtained from this superb site all my phals are now very healthy and producind new growth. i'm sure that it is just a matter of time before spikes appear, perhaps when the days shorten i shall see spike growth.
thanks for all your help (yet again) and i will keep you all posted on new developments.
happy growing
Gary
