Phalaenopsis aerial roots query

Discussion in 'Tropical Gardening' started by barryman, Jan 3, 2025.

  1. barryman

    barryman Gardener

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    I have a Phalaenopsis +orchid which is now quite tall but leggy. It flowerd ok last year and I keep it as healthy as I can with watering and misting. My query is that it has now developed aerial roots not only at the base where I expected them to be but at the top which you can see in photo.

    My question is:- a) Is this a sign that I should detach the stem just below the aerial roots and try propagating it by correct potting etc or b) should I just leave it as is or c) cut the shoot at it's base ?? Any advice will be greatly appreciated orchid 4.jpg orchid 4.jpg orchid 4.jpg orchid 3.jpg
     
  2. Goldenlily26

    Goldenlily26 Super Gardener

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    I would bend it over and anchor the ariel roots onto another pot of bark, with a U of wire, beside the mother plant if you want to try propagating a new plant. If not, just cut the new plant off just below where the ariel roots are growing from and bin or give to a friend.
     
  3. Fof

    Fof Gardener

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    What you have is a keiki, Hawaiian for 'baby'.
    You can just remove it from the old flower spike and pot it up.
     
    • Agree Agree x 2
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