Question
This is my first time I have ever tried growing an orchid, I just love the way they look. My orchid bloomed a few of it buds did not open and fell off. I was not worried about that but i Have been out of my office and had not water in awhile. I notice today when I watered it that the roots above the bark had become hollow and gray. I cut them off ther are still good roots that I can see under the bark. What should I do I do not want to lose my orchid.

Answer
Hello Linda,

Phalaenopsis orchids are pretty hardy, but they cannot survive for long without water because the only reserve moisture is within the leaves.  If only a few of the external roots became dry and the leaves are still firm and stiff, then all is okay.  

You did not mention how you have been watering it but I would suggest soaking the pot in lukewarm water that just barely comes to the top of the pot for 20 to 30 minutes, remove the pot and allow excess water to drain before putting it back where you've been growing it.  The main concern would be if water were to get into the crook formed at the base of the leaves, if you notice water there try removing it with the corner of a paper towel or kleenex.  You said it is in your office, is there a window?  If so, what is the sun exposure, north, east, south, west?  Depending upon the exposure, you can grow it close to the window (north or east) or 5 or more feet away (south or west) in mostly shade.  It would be beneficial to have a non-porous tray filled with small pebbles or marbles in which you could keep water in to create a little humidity around it.  You can help the humidity by misting it in the morning but do not do this in the afternoon to ensure the plant is dry by the time you leave work.  Water left on the leafs overnight can be a potential breeding environment for sooty fungus which can kill your phal.  

Phals prefer temperatures between 60 to 85 F, humidity above 50%, light air movement and bright indirect sunlight.  Water when the potting mix becomes barely moist.  Once in a while it would help to include a little fertilizer in the water using a balance type recommended for orchids.  

Hope this has helped.  Good luck and good growing.

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.