Dried Roots

[kumcha]

Hi All,
I am new to this. I was given an orchid from my boss, upon the start of my job. I was told to "keep it alive". Well...I don't know what type it is, and I have read basic orchid care, but it seems as if the air roots are drying out fast! I have MASS roots, that are dried out. I also have, healthy roots in the pot. Do orchids like to be root bound? Are the dried roots something tha I should be worried about?
I would apreciate any help at all.
Regards,
k

[mayres]

I'm going to assume that you have a phalaenopsis type orchid? 3-8 large leaves coming out of one central area? Air roots are normal for this type of plant as it grows on trees in the wild - where ALL of the roots are "air" roots. If they are dried up it probably means that it once was in a humid environment where they could thrive and since then has been in a dryer environment where they are drying/shriveling. That is not necessarily a problem if you have plenty of healthy roots in the pot. A couple of main considerations of this type orchid is not to over water - many have suggested using a bamboo skewer in the pot and don't water until you pull it out and it is dry. Depending upon the media and the place where it is - this may be 3-4 days or even 3-4 weeks. Lightly misting the air roots a few times a day might help to give them some life if they are not completely dried up. Be careful not to get water in the crown of the plant where it might not evaporate before evening - it can lead to crown rot. Other than watering the other thing of note is "light". Wherever you put it, if your hand casts a shadow on the leaves (or the light makes the leaves warm) that is probably too much light - a few feet from a good east window usually works well. Assuming I guessed correctly that you indeed have a phal that should get you started and lead to more reading/questions. Good luck. Mike