Florists who have just begun their close acquaintance with orchids do not know what to do with the roots of this plant, which still tries to climb out of the substrate that fills the pot. Unlike other indoor pets, which obediently grow in their containers, this state of affairs is considered the norm for orchids.
Since the vast majority of them are classified as epiphytes (plants that grow on the surface of other plants), the presence of aerial roots is a completely natural state.
Norm or pathology
Some flower growers, who noticed that the roots of the orchid have climbed out of the pot, do not know what to do with them: put them back in the substrate or cut them off with special tools. After all, at the time of planting or purchasing a new pet in a specialized store, it looks decent, and its root system fits inside the pot.
In fact, the aerial roots of the orchid sticking out of the container act as additional support for the upper part of the plant. Moreover, healthy roots are intended for the plant to obtain additional moisture from the air, as well as to ensure the course of the photosynthesis process. Therefore, do not rush to remove the root processes that stick out of the pot. Reckless manipulations can harm the flower, depriving it of an additional portion of useful substances.
The roots of the plant are an indicator of the health of your pet
If the orchid produces bright green roots, then nothing threatens its health, and it grows “with pleasure”. If the flower has only pale green appendages, it means that it is necessary to change the conditions of maintenance, since your pet is in a state of old age.
A change in the color of the roots from deep green to dark brown or yellowish with brown spots can be caused by several reasons:
- the beginning of the putrefactive process;
- burns obtained as a result of incorrect selection of fertilizer concentration;
- deposition of salts resulting from the use of mineral fertilizers.
In this case, the plant needs treatment, as well as a change in the conditions of maintenance.
If the orchid has dry root processes sticking out, you should not immediately grab the scissors. Usually, a similar phenomenon occurs in the hot season, when the owner deprives his pet of moisture. Do not rush to remove dried parts. To begin with, carry out resuscitation measures. Restore the intensity of watering, and also wash the roots with warm water. As a rule, most of the appendages are restored after carrying out such measures. If the procedures do not give an effect, the dried parts can be removed.
This is important to know for every gardener
Roots sticking out of the pot in not all cases indicate that the flower needs “surgical” measures. Therefore, before asking the question whether it is possible to cut the roots of an orchid that climbs out of the pot, assess its condition, take restorative measures, and only then remove the growths that spoil the appearance of the plant.
Importantly! You can find out whether the roots are alive and healthy by placing the plant in water for a long period. Living processes will become elastic and green again. If the roots remain brown, then they are dead or diseased and can be removed.
