Hello! 👋 I have been doing some research and am having a bit of a hard time figuring out what’s wrong with my orchid’s roots. Is this an early stage of root rot? Does it require urgent action? (I’ve found some good tips on how to deal with that, I just don’t want to take drastic measures if unnecessary.)
Looks like most of the roots are dead. I find that to be pretty typical for orchids that are still on the sphagnum they came in. It’s generally tightly packed, keeping the roots wet for extended periods and limited air circulation. Luckily it looks like you have some healthily roots. I would remove the sphagnum and the dead roots (brown, papery or mushy). I would add holes to the pot it is currently in, and repot with 50% sphagnum 50% bark. Don’t pack it tightly. The goal is an chunky mix that allows plenty of air to get to the roots, but can retain some water without water logging. When watering you can pour over the top of the media until water comes out the bottom of the pot. Or soak the pot for 10-15 minutes. Wait until the media is dry before watering. Green roots = wet. Silvery = dry.
6 likesThank you so much, this is super helpful!
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Yes, sorry to say all those roots inside (except a few green ones on left side) are dead. Remove all substrate, cut dead off, repot in a pot with air gaps and a chunky airy orchid mix (not just packed moss alone). Luck be with you.
3 likesThank you - they aren’t in the picture but thankfully on the other side of the pot there are lots of healthy roots! 🤞
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