Orchid roots comining out of pot openings

Discussion in 'HortForum' started by gallina, Jul 18, 2010.

  1. gallina

    gallina Active Member

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    Some time ago I repotted my phal into a special orchid pot with openings. Now I'm seeing some roots have been coming out of the openings. Otherwise, the phal looks healthy. Is it a sign that the pot is too small?
    Are these pots good for orchids, after all?
     

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  2. lorax

    lorax Rising Contributor 10 Years

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    I always thought that the roots were supposed to come out of those openings....
     
  3. togata57

    togata57 Generous Contributor 10 Years

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    Your orchid looks good to me. Pot seems to be an appropriate size for the plant.

    Yes, the holes are there to enhance air circulation around the roots. Phals are epiphytes, to which this is essential.
     
  4. photopro

    photopro Well-Known Member

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    Lengthening roots are a sign the plant is happy and healthy. In our atrium we have some hanging 6 to 7 feet from the orchids that are attached to an artificial log. At both the Missouri Botanical Garden and Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Miami some species hang much longer than that.

    In nature, many species are solely attached to a tree branch and use the long roots to gather moisture from the humidity of the forest.

    Steve
     
  5. gallina

    gallina Active Member

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    Thanks to all for your replies. I feel relieved!
     

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