Did you know that you can get abundant flowers and roots from the orchid if you do this procedure once a month? Let’s find out what the process is and how to do it!
There is a procedure that allows you to obtain abundant flowers and roots of the orchid if you apply it once a month. What process is this? The procedure concerns the aerial roots of the orchid, which should be treated in the same way as those in the pot. Let’s find out what to do to have abundant roots and flowers!
Because the orchid produces aerial roots.
The aerial roots that orchids produce are a completely normal process for these plants, in fact they inherit this trait from genetic factors of the species from which they come. These roots have the function of absorbing water and nutrients and further strengthening the plant to the soil, in addition to contributing to photosynthesis, even minimally. The behavior does not change when the plant is in the pot. The roots of the orchid seek water and support from multiple sources, in order to ensure their survival. Let’s say that they act like this instinctively, naturally, and it is good that the orchid no longer produces roots, since it feeds on the aerial ones. Usually this happens because the soil is not good for orchids to grow and therefore root production is concentrated outside the pot.
What to do with the aerial roots of orchids
The aerial roots of the orchid should not be cut, but preferably wet to promote growth. To prevent them from falling to the ground, it is advisable to place the pot in a larger one so that it is higher and introduce the aerial roots in a plastic cup with water. As the water is absorbed, fill the glass to give them the necessary food. As we have already mentioned, the roots of orchids that protrude from the pot should never be cut, except when they are dry and dead. These roots add charm to the plant and testify to its good health. In fact, if the orchid has aerial roots outside the pot, it is very likely that they have not suffered from water stagnation, so they are certainly healthy. Avoid potting aerial roots as you may run the risk that they will not adapt to the bark and therefore could die. Another trick involves sprinkling water on the aerial roots, to help the plant stay hydrated.
When to transplant aerial roots of orchids
If you don’t want to see these roots outside the plant, transplant them, but don’t cut them. However, before transplanting, it is necessary to get the aerial roots of orchids used to a higher level of humidity than what you will find in the soil. Here’s how to do it:
- Wait for the right time to transplant the orchid;
- In the 2 weeks prior to transplanting, sprinkle water on the aerial roots;
- Be careful not to wet the stem and leaves;
- Spray water 2 times a day and then increase to 4-5 times.
In this way the roots will get used to the higher humidity and will root well in the substrate.
Get More Orchids From Aerial Roots
You can also get other orchids from aerial roots. If there are too many and they are healthy, cut the orchid from the stem part with sharp scissors and separate it from the root. Plant the aerial roots in a separate pot and add a tablespoon of ground cinnamon, making sure that it ends up in the cut part, to disinfect it. At this point, place some clay balls to plant the other orchid, place it inside the pot and add the soil. Leave it for half an hour in hydrogen peroxide so that the roots soften. Place pine and moss on top to nourish the plant and make it grow and develop to the fullest. You’ll see your orchids grow lush and produce lots of beautiful, and abundant, too! As you can see, the aerial roots of the orchid are very important and you can only cut them if you have to!
