When Is It Acceptable to Cut Aerial Roots?
Although cutting aerial roots is generally discouraged, there are exceptions. You should only cut these roots in certain circumstances:
1. When the Roots Are Rotten or Dry
If the aerial roots are brown, dry, or wilted, this means they are no longer functioning properly. In this case, it is perfectly acceptable to cut them, but you must be cautious and use clean, sharp scissors or shears to avoid damaging healthy roots. After cutting the rotting part, make sure to leave the plant in a humid environment to encourage the growth of new roots.
2. When Repotting the Orchid
It may sometimes be necessary to repot your orchid if it has outgrown its pot or if you want to place it in a new substrate. In this case, you may need to cut the aerial roots, but only if they are too long or damaged. However, be careful not to cut any healthy roots, as they are vital for the plant’s survival.
How to Care for Aerial Roots?
To avoid needing to cut the aerial roots, it’s best to take preventive measures to ensure the health of your orchid. Here are a few tips to keep your aerial roots healthy:
1. Maintain a Humid Environment
Orchids, and particularly their aerial roots, need a humid environment to thrive. If the air in your home is too dry, you can increase the humidity around the plant by using a humidifier or placing a water tray under the pot. You can also lightly mist the aerial roots with water to keep them hydrated.
2. Never Let the Roots Sit in Water
While aerial roots need moisture, it’s important not to let them sit in stagnant water. If the water stays in contact with the roots for too long, it can lead to fungal diseases and root rot. Make sure the orchid’s pot has good drainage to prevent water from accumulating.
3. Regularly Check the Condition of the Roots
Regularly inspect the condition of the aerial roots. If they become gray or brown, this could be a sign of a lack of moisture or a too-dry environment. In this case, you can use the water bowl method (explained later) to rehydrate the roots.
How to Know When to Water Your Orchid?
Another common mistake made by orchid owners is either over-watering or under-watering the plant. To know when to water your orchid, it’s important not to rely solely on the aerial roots, as they are not always the best indicator. The roots inside the pot are a better gauge of the plant’s moisture needs.
Green Roots: If the roots inside the pot are green, this means the orchid has enough moisture and doesn’t need to be watered.
Gray or Silver Roots: If the roots become gray or silver, it indicates that the plant is thirsty and needs watering.
When watering, make sure to use room-temperature water and water the soil, not the aerial roots. Be sure not to let water pool in the pot, as this can lead to root rot.
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