Phalaenopsis Aerial Roots: Repot in Fresh Bark Mix

Jillian's mother's Phalaenopsis (years on dining table) grew roots from top of plant (where leaves are). Asked why and what to do.

Aerial Roots: Natural But Also a Signal

Normal for epiphytes. In pots, prolific aerial roots often mean mix has broken down—roots escape seeking air.

Repot After Flowering (Standard Advice)

1. Fir-bark mix (soaked).
2. Unpot, discard old mix, rinse roots.
3. Remove mushy roots (healthy = firm).
4. Same pot if root loss; larger if roots healthy. Plastic, many holes.
5. Soak aerial roots green (less brittle); work some into mix.
6. Don't remove aerial roots—they photosynthesize.

Annual Repotting Prevents This

Fresh mix maintains aeration; roots stay in pot.