Question
Dear Expert:
I recently acquired a BEAUTIFUL phalaenopsis orchid with 4 healthy spikes and flowering like crazy, However, there are several exposing roots. What do I do? I'm noticing that they are beginning to get "dried" out.
I'm watering as directed. So now I don't know what to do, please help. She is too beautiful to not do anything. Thank you, Anna Marie

Answer
Orchds tend to have aerial roots. They grow naturally on trees and so their roots are exposed to air.  Things change with pot culture. Potting mix in a pot will break down, restricting air movement. When that happens, the roots seek air by trying to escape from the pot. As the roots grow away from the pot, they enounter drier air and form a corklike covering to prevent loss of moisture. Aerial roots are a natural part of the plant, since, in nature, thay grow in a very humid atmosphere.  Be sure to repot your plant in coarse orchid potting mix that has been thoroughly soaked.  Do this after each flowering.  Be sure to use a pot with lots of drainage.  This will help to ensure good air flow to the roots and good drainage.