Posted on Dec 2, 2023 at 2:03 pm by Oliver C
Orchids are beautiful and popular plants, but sometimes they exhibit intriguing behavior, such as letting their roots grow out of the pot. It is crucial to monitor the condition of the roots and know how to care for them to ensure overall plant health.
Table of Contents
Important Steps:
- Thorough preparation of materials before any intervention
- Cutting dry or rotten roots:
- Potting: choosing the appropriate size
- Post-cut care: preventive treatment and optimal conditions
Step 1: Adequately prepare the materials
Before starting to cut the roots of your orchid, it is necessary to properly prepare the materials. Use clean and disinfected scissors to avoid introducing bacteria or fungi to the cut areas. Store all necessary materials in a clean and dry place, within reach.
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Step 2: Identify and cut problem roots
To assess the condition of your orchid’s roots, check the texture, color, and smell. Healthy roots are firm, fleshy, and light green to silvery-gray. Dry or rotten roots, often brown or beige and softened, should be delicately removed without touching the neighboring live roots.
If in doubt, it is better to be cautious. Cutting a live root can harm the plant. Systematically remove the brownish roots often clustered in the center of the pot.
Step 3: Choose the appropriate pot size
Orchids like to feel comfortable in their pot
A pot that is too large could promote root rot. Opt for a pot slightly larger than the size of the root ball, so the roots will be more compact and benefit from better watering and drainage. Additionally, transparent pots allow for easy checking of the root condition without disturbing the plant.
Roots overflowing from the pot:
Roots that protrude from the pot, fleshy and firm, are not necessarily alarming. However, if certain areas show signs of dryness or rot, it could indicate a problem. Vigilance regarding their condition is essential to ensure overall plant health.
Step 4: Take care of your orchid after cutting
After cutting dry or brownish roots, it is necessary to take care of your orchid to promote its recovery:
- Treat the remaining roots with aliette (a fungicide) to prevent any rot.
- In the absence of aliette, wrap the plant in a transparent plastic bag while allowing some air circulation.
Place the orchid in a bright but not direct sunlight location, with ambient humidity and a temperature around 20°C (68°F), and also adopt appropriate treatment for your orchids to boost their flowering, promoting healthy growth and vibrant flowers.
To ensure harmonious growth and spectacular flowering of your orchids, take the time to observe and care for their roots. Follow the steps presented in this article to ensure that these fascinating plants thrive in your home for a long time!
