Why are the roots of my Phalaenopsis turning black? Are they rotten?
On the plant-growing journey, many people pay attention first to flower color, and black always gives people the impression of being an unlucky flower. However, if black appears on Phalaenopsis flowers, it may be a different story, because this mysterious and upscale flower color is truly fascinating. If you take a photo of this pot of Phalaenopsis and post it on social media, it may even get over ten thousand likes in no time
On the journey of growing Phalaenopsis, no matter how beautiful the plant is when you buy it, many different problems will appear not long after you actually grow it. Among the questions from flower lovers, the most common ones are about the "root system," and the most common issue is that the roots turn black for no apparent reason. What exactly is the cause?
Regarding the flower lovers' question above, when the roots turn black for no apparent reason, the cause is mostly too much watering that soaks and rots the roots, or fertilizer mixed too strong that burns the roots! Because the roots' original healthy color is emerald green, and now they look as if they have been poisoned, so you should first check whether the soil moisture is too high. And if it is caused by high fertilizer concentration, this situation is like giving the flower a concentrated coffee, which will directly exceed the limit and burn the roots.
When encountering a similar black root situation, the first step is to immediately give the flower's roots a thorough cleaning. The method can be to use purified water and aim a strong stream at the bottom of the pot until clear water flows out from the bottom. This process is like giving the flower a stomach wash, flushing away the salts in the soil and the rotten root debris. Note here that you must use purified water; if you really do not have it, use mineral water, not tap water, because chlorine can also easily irritate the roots.
During the cleaning process, after washing the roots, remember these three key points. First, before watering, touch the potting soil; those who cannot analyze it can directly feel it with their hands, and water only when the surface of the medium is completely dry. Second, when fertilizing, be firm and reduce the amount; it is recommended to dilute to 1/3 of the concentration stated in the instructions. Finally, more holes can be drilled in the bottom of the flower pot, and the bottom must be kept unobstructed so that accumulated water does not remain at the bottom of the pot.
In short, growing flowers is like raising children; you cannot spoil them too much or abuse them. If you find the leaves slightly wilted, do not rush to water. On the care journey, remember: water thoroughly only when dry, and fertilize lightly and often.