Over time, the orchid can grow powerful roots that extend beyond the pot and seem to “hang” in the air.
In the wild, this phenomenon is considered normal. The orchid absorbs atmospheric moisture with its aerial roots and twines around nearby trees.
The flower continues to do the same thing at home, which causes concern among the owners.
Why do aerial roots appear?
Most often, the problem is in improper maintenance. High temperatures along with dry air can provoke the appearance of aerial roots in orchids.
A similar process is typical for situations when a flower is overwatered. The roots lack oxygen and begin to rot. To save themselves, they leave the pot.
Excessively dense soil, as well as a lack of light, can also lead to the appearance of aerial roots.
What Healthy Roots Look Like
If 3-5 roots stick out of the pot, then this is normal. Healthy roots are green or light green. They are not dry or soft to the touch.
An alarming sign is the paleness of the roots. This means that the plant lacks moisture. Brown, soft, wrinkled and slippery roots are signs of a sick and dying plant.
What to do with aerial roots
First, it is necessary to establish the reasons why they got out of the pot. Then it is better to transplant the plant into a larger container and try to comply with all the conditions for keeping the orchid. The roots cannot be cut.
