question after repotting phals

[zcivic]

i just re potted 2 of my phals and just wondering if it is ok if there is a little bit of open space down in the root system, its very hard to get the pot full of median because they have ALLOT of roots so in the pot there is some space where it is just open i could not get anything in there is this ok?

[violetta]

This is not a problem. You can try tapping the pot gently so that more medium will get between the roots (I assume you potted the Phals in bark?)

[zcivic]

yes i did in a medium bark and iv done almost all i can to try and get it to fall into the space but if think its all i can do it just not as tight as the bark it came it probably original medium but i am guessing repotting you can never get it as full as what it grew in so im sure im fine but is there anything i should watch for on the roots if they dont have enough in there?? will they just die out to much?

[norris]

When I have that problem, I take a small stick and push medium in place, then tap the pot to settle it in, and repeat those steps until I feel satisfied I have enough mix.

[11Orchid126]

As norris says, use a stick, skewer, or pensil to poke the medium in place. I find using this method I can put a lot more medium in the pot.

[zcivic]

ill give it a shot im sure it will work a bit more in there thanks allot everyone

[NancyH]

Hi zcivic, Remember that Phals are Epiphitic, loving life clinging to tree limbs and the like. Some air surrounding the roots is good. You may have to water a bit more to compensate for less medium close to the roots, but as far as Phal's go, less water is better. Good luck and I am sure they will be fine. Nancy