Causes and Solutions for Root Rot in Hydroponic Phalaenopsis Orchids

Root rot in water-cultured Phalaenopsis orchids? Don't panic! Below, let's talk about how to save the roots. Even a plant with rotten roots can be saved and reborn, so beginners, save this quickly.

Causes of root rot

Watering too often: water culture does not mean growing the plant submerged in water! Many people think water culture means adding water every day, but as a result the roots sit in standing water for a long time, and root rot from lack of oxygen is inevitable. Remember "moist≠waterlogged"

Compacted growing medium: even in water culture, if the sphagnum moss or expanded clay pebbles at the bottom of the pot become compacted and airless, water cannot drain away.

Stuffy, unventilated environment: putting it in an air-conditioned room in summer, tucking it next to a heater in winter, and rarely opening the windows, this hot and humid little environment is a breeding ground for root rot.

Emergency rescue methods
 
1. Remove from the pot

Gently tap the side of the container to take out the Phalaenopsis. Cut off all the visibly rotten roots (blackened, soft, mushy ones), don't be soft-hearted at all! Keep only the firm green roots and white crystal tips. After cutting, check once more to make sure no rotten roots remain. The wounds can be left to dry for 10minutes.

2.Sterilize

Prepare a special revival nutrient solution for Phalaenopsis and dilute it with water at a ratio of 1:50030minutes, letting the nutrient solution soak into every healthy root, which sterilizes them and replenishes their energy. After soaking, take it out and leave it in a cool, ventilated place to dry for 2days, until the roots become a little wrinkled and stop dripping.

3.Repot

Beginners, just go straight for a transparent root-control pot! It has good breathability and lets you observe the state of the roots. Put a layer of expanded clay pebbles at the bottom of the pot to prevent water accumulation. Soak the sphagnum moss briefly, squeeze out the water, and loosely wrap it around the roots. If the root rot is especially severe, try the "hanging method" --find a hook and hang the flower stem up so the roots are suspended in the air, then mist the roots with water morning and evening to keep them moist, forcing it to grow new roots.

4.Care

Never water a Phalaenopsis that has just been treated! For the first 2weeks, mist the roots 1time a day with a spray bottle, keeping the roots only slightly moist. Put it in bright, indirect light, away from direct sunlight and air-conditioner vents. After about 2-3weeks, when you see white new crystal tips emerging, it means the roots have recovered. At this point, resume normal watering and care, but the water level should not cover more than 1/2of the roots; just keep it ventilated.