Orchids have two types of roots: fine and thick, which are crucial for matching the right potting media to the root type. Orchid roots consist of an inside wiry filament and a thick, sponge-like covering called velamen that helps prevent water loss and aids in absorption of water and mineral nutrients. Orchid roots vary depending on the medium they grow in, with some being aerial, which gets nutrients from the air and doesn’t grow in soil; others are terrestrial, which requires growth in soil.
Orchid roots have two visible parts: the velamen and the root tip. The root tip is the nexus of growth and tells you about the overall orchid’s health. Orchid roots consist of an inside wiry filament and a thick, sponge-like covering called velamen that helps prevent water loss and aids in absorption of water and mineral nutrients. Orchid roots vary depending on the medium they grow in, with some being aerial, which means they get nutrients from the air and don’t grow in soil; others are terrestrial, which means they have to grow in soil.
Arrival roots, also known as adventitious roots, are similar to fibrous roots, which are the opposite of a taproot system and are formed by thin, moderately branching roots growing from the stem. They look like a mat made out of roots when the plant has reached full maturity. Air roots, which are normal in Phalaenopsis and other epiphyte orchids, are green when watered and silvery when dry.
In summary, orchids have two types of roots: aerial and “normal” ones. A healthy orchid’s roots are typically silvery green, with a fullness when squeezed between fingers.
📹 How To Know Which Orchid Roots to Cut? (Focus on Yellow Roots)
Yellow Roots on Orchids: Cut Off, Nurture, or Ignore them? When you start repotting for the first time, you can come across roots in …
📹 Understanding Phalaenopsis Orchid roots – All you should know!
Today we focus on Phalaenopsis orchids and talk about their roots! Who is a root fan? 😀 ▽▽▽More info below!
Add comment