TheNaturePlanet

If you've just obtained a bare-root Phalaenopsis orchid seedling, don't worry. By mastering these three root-growing methods, even beginners can make the roots thrive.

I. Soaking Method
1. On the first day, fill a container with clean water and completely soak the roots for 12 to 24 hours.
2. On the second day, pour out the water and gently wipe the surface moisture of the roots with a paper towel.
Precautions: In summer, air-dry the roots in a ventilated place for 5 to 7 days until they turn white; in winter, air-dry them for 3 to 5 days to avoid excessive dehydration.

II. Water-absorbing Rope Method
1. Wrap the water-absorbing rope around the roots 2 to 3 times, and let the end hang down to the bottom of the container.
2. Spread 3 cm of volcanic stones at the bottom of the container. After placing the seedling, add water, making sure the water does not cover the volcanic stones.
3. Refill the water after it dries out, approximately once every 7 to 10 days.
Precautions: Use a transparent container to easily observe the water level and avoid root suffocation; choose a pure cotton water-absorbing rope, as a chemical fiber one may damage the roots.

III. Water Level Method
1. Water until the roots at the bottom of the pot touch a water level of 1 cm.
2. After the water is naturally absorbed, take out the seedling and air-dry the roots for 5 to 7 days.
Precautions: Never let the water submerge above the middle part of the roots, as it will cause root rot; when air-drying the roots, place them in a place with diffused light, not in direct sunlight.

Root Rot Trimming:
1. Use disinfected scissors to cut off the blackened and softened rotten roots, and keep the white and healthy roots.
2. Apply carbendazim powder to the wound or let it air-dry for 2 hours.
3. Do not let the roots touch water for at least 3 days after trimming! Avoid infection.

Maintenance Key Points:
1. Lighting: Mainly diffused light. The best place is behind the window screen by the window. Avoid strong light in summer.
2. Temperature: The most suitable temperature is 15 to 30°C. Do not let the temperature drop below 10°C in winter.
3. Humidity: When the air is dry (especially in the north), spray water around every day to increase humidity.
4. Fertilization Tips: Do not fertilize during the bare-root period! After new roots grow, apply a special orchid fertilizer diluted 1000 times once a month.

Common Questions:
1. How long does it take for a bare-root seedling to grow new roots?
Under normal maintenance, new roots can be seen sprouting within 2 to 4 weeks.
2. Can the plant be saved if all the roots are shriveled?
Put a transparent plastic bag over it (leave air holes), maintain a humidity of 80%, and open the bag to ventilate for 1 hour every day.
3. Can it be directly planted in a flower pot?
It is recommended to temporarily plant it in sphagnum moss for 1 month. Transplant it into a pot when the new roots grow to 5 cm for a higher survival rate!

By mastering these skills, a bare-root Phalaenopsis orchid seedling can also develop abundant roots and bloom many flowers.