Planting Phalaenopsis Keikis: Root Trimming and Mix Advice

Repotting Phalaenopsis Keikis After Two Years

Dana in London has Phalaenopsis with 5 keikis (almost 2 years old). Inexperienced, didn't intervene. Mother and keikis did well, all keikis bloomed last year. Recently decided to plant them after son broke spike to one keiki (slowly died). Used B&Q orchid compost (medium bark + normal compost) and large bark from specialist store. Followed guide: removed old/mushy roots, trimmed overgrown keiki roots. Guide didn't mention fungicide (later found cinnamon good). Mother plant repotted (many mushy roots removed). Keikis in 5-inch pots, packed mix. Left tiny spike portions on keikis, afraid to remove completely. Old flower spikes brown/woody, cut completely. Asks: will they produce new spikes? If no fungicide but trimmed roots, need something to prevent rot? Using transparent pots to monitor roots.

Expert Response

Dana, once old spike browns, won't rebloom—correct to remove. Future: don't cut roots unless mushy (dead). Trimming healthy roots risks fungal infection and deprives plant of root material for new growth. If you have powdered sulfur/fungicide (cinnamon may work), dip root end before repotting. Phalaenopsis keikis will send new spikes at appropriate time if healthy—usually rebloom annually same time. Caution on potting mix: mixing medium bark with compost may accelerate bark decomposition. Normally keep mix open with bark + perlite, charcoal, expanded clay (inorganic, don't deteriorate). Smaller plants need finer mix. Use pot with many drainage holes. All advice in context of your experience—you've done very well growing Phalaenopsis. Keep doing what works; hard to argue with success.