How to prune orchid roots

Do orchids need root pruning?

Orchids need to have their roots pruned. During the cultivation process, root pruning is a common task. Whether it is division or repotting, the step of root pruning is required.

Root pruning for orchids bought online

Orchids purchased online need to have their empty roots pruned off. These roots are already damaged and cannot absorb nutrients and water. They are worthless roots and need to be pruned clean in a timely manner.

Hydroponic orchid root pruning

Before hydroponics, orchids need to be removed from the pots, and the roots need to be washed, trimmed, disinfected and dried, and then placed in a glass container for maintenance.

Orchid root pruning and potting

1. Correct pruning: Root pruning for orchids should be carried out according to the principle of "cut the bad and keep the good, cut the weak and keep the strong".

Empty roots, rotten roots and old roots should be cut off. If the root system is growing healthily and there are no empty roots or rotten roots, then the healthy roots should be combed and pruned, and the thin and weak roots should be cut off to ensure sufficient growth space for the healthy roots.

2. Wound treatment: Orchids that have just had their roots trimmed should be placed in a cool place to dry the wounds and avoid being infected by bacteria. Generally, after drying overnight, the juice oozing out of the orchid root wounds will completely solidify and dry, ready to be potted.

3. Re-potting: Re-pot the trimmed orchid. Before repotting, spray water evenly on the potting soil and stir it to keep the soil neither dry nor wet. When planting, do not plant too deep. After planting, compact the surface soil. Do not water immediately. Wait 3 to 4 days for the orchid to adapt to the pot before watering.

Orchid root pruning

Soak the roots in 1500 times diluted permanganate solution for 15-20 minutes, then take out and wash them in clean water. When the water is slightly dry, wrap the leaves with newspaper to expose the roots, put them in the sun to dry, and spray them with rooting agent when the roots turn white.

Orchid roots in pots

After root pruning, juice will flow out from the wound, so the roots need to be air-dried before they can be potted. Generally speaking, it is recommended to air-dry for about 1-2 days after root pruning before potting. This period of time can allow the orchid wound to heal, and the roots will not easily rot after potting, and the survival rate will be higher.

Orchid root pruning and potting maintenance

1. After repotting the orchid, you can water it thoroughly immediately. Then you need to wait until the soil is completely dry before watering it again. After 20 days, when the orchid has adapted to the new environment, you can water it normally.

2. Generally, it needs to be maintained in a dark, well-ventilated environment within a week after potting. After a week, it can be moved to a sunny place to avoid direct sunlight in the afternoon.