How to prune the roots of orchids
If you want to know about the content of pruning the roots of orchids in the field of green plants and flowers, please see the detailed introduction below.
How to prune the roots of orchids
Remove the empty, rotten, and old roots of orchids, and also thin out the strong and healthy roots by pruning the thin and weak ones to ensure sufficient growth space for the robust roots. After pruning, soak the roots in a solution of potassium permanganate (1:1500) for 15-20 minutes, then let them dry for 1-2 days before repotting. After repotting, water thoroughly once, then reduce watering and keep the plant in a shady place for care.
Do orchids need root pruning?
Orchids do need root pruning. During the cultivation process, pruning the roots is a common task, whether it's for dividing the plant or changing the pot.
Online purchased orchid root pruning
Orchids bought online need to have the empty roots pruned, as these roots are already dead and cannot absorb nutrients and water, making them valueless and needing to be cut off promptly.
Hydroponic orchid root pruning
Before hydroponic orchid cultivation, the plant needs to be taken out of the pot, the roots cleaned, pruned, disinfected, and dried before placing them in a glass container for care.
Orchid root pruning and repotting
1. Proper pruning: Prune the orchid roots according to the principle of 'cut the bad, keep the good; cut the weak, keep the strong'.
Remove the empty, rotten, and old roots. If the roots are strong and healthy without any empty or rotten roots, it is still necessary to thin out the robust roots by removing the thin and weak ones to ensure sufficient growth space.
2. Wound treatment: After pruning, place the orchid in a shaded and cool place to dry the wounds and avoid infection. Generally, after one night, the root wounds will be completely dry and solidified, ready for repotting.
3. Repotting: Repot the pruned orchid, making sure to spray and mix the potting soil evenly beforehand to keep it moist but not dry. When planting, do not plant too deep. After planting, press the surface soil and do not water immediately. Wait for 3 to 4 days, and after the orchid has adapted, water as needed.
Orchid root washing and treatment
Soak the roots in a diluted solution of potassium permanganate (1:1500) for 15-20 minutes, then rinse them in clean water. When the water is slightly dry, wrap the leaf part with newspaper, leaving the roots exposed, and place it in the sun to dry. When the roots turn white, spray once with a rooting hormone.
Orchid root drying and repotting
After pruning, the wounds will have sap flowing out, so it's necessary to let the roots dry before repotting. It is generally recommended to wait 1-2 days before repotting to allow the orchid wounds to contract, which makes the roots less likely to rot and increases the survival rate.
Orchid care after root pruning and repotting
1. After repotting, the orchid can be watered thoroughly immediately, then wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again. After 20 days, when the orchid has adapted to the new environment, it can be watered normally.
2. Within one week after repotting, the orchid should be kept in a shady and well-ventilated place. After one week, it can be moved to a place with morning sun, avoiding direct sunlight in the afternoon.
The above is the specific content on how to prune the roots of orchids. If it can help you, remember to visit the website often!