What is good to use for growing new roots on Phalaenopsis orchids? Methods to promote root growth
Fellow orchid growers, do you always keep your eyes on the buds and leaves but ignore the roots? You should know that only when the roots are well grown can the Phalaenopsis thrive! How do you get a Phalaenopsis to sprout plump white new roots, and what can you use to make the root system stronger?
Why Phalaenopsis doesn't grow roots. Phalaenopsis roots fear stuffiness, waterlogging and cold the most. If there is too much water in the pot, they rot from being smothered; if the temperature is too low, the roots simply "go on strike" and go dormant. So if you want it to grow new roots, you first have to create a comfortable environment for the roots!
Don't use ordinary soil to grow Phalaenopsis! Phalaenopsis is an epiphytic plant, and sphagnum moss, bark and perlite are a classic combination: sphagnum moss retains water and is soft, bark is breathable and also holds the roots in place, and perlite improves drainage. If you find the roots yellowing and shriveling, take the plant out of the pot right away to inspect it, cut off the rotten roots and repot with fresh growing medium. When repotting, don't rush to fill the medium to the brim; leave some gaps for the roots to grow freely.
Many people think that watering more makes roots grow faster, which is completely wrong! Phalaenopsis roots like a "wet-dry cycle". How do you tell when to water? The simplest way: lift the pot, and water when it feels lighter; or push aside the top 2 cm of growing medium and water when it is dry. Don't water too often: once every 7 - 10 days in spring and autumn, once every 5 - 7 days in summer, and once every half month in winter. Remember, it's better to let it be a bit dry than to let the roots sit in water!
If you want to "speed up development" of the roots, you can use some rooting agent or special orchid nutrient solution. Choose a rooting agent containing indolebutyric acid and naphthaleneacetic acid, dilute it according to the instructions, soak the Phalaenopsis roots for 15 - 20 minutes, then repot. Don't forget the nutrient solution either: dilute it 1000 times and drench the roots once a month, which both supplies nutrients and stimulates new root growth. But don't be greedy: fertilizer that is too strong easily burns the roots.
Phalaenopsis roots can actually "photosynthesize" too! Put it somewhere with plenty of bright, indirect light; proper light makes the roots grow sturdier, but never expose it to blazing sun! If the temperature exceeds 30°C, move it to a shady spot right away.
If a Phalaenopsis just won't grow roots, you can try "sphagnum moss root forcing"! Find a clear plastic cup, poke a few holes in the bottom, lay in moist sphagnum moss, bury the Phalaenopsis roots in it and put it in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Sphagnum moss holds moisture and is breathable, simulating the native environment, and new roots will soon emerge!
If you want a Phalaenopsis to grow new roots, just remember the key points: breathable growing medium, restrained watering, moderate fertilizing and suitable light. As long as you grow the roots plump and white, it's only a matter of time before the Phalaenopsis blooms all over the pot! Next time you run into root problems, try these methods; they're guaranteed to work!