Getting a phal to grow deeper roots

[Vanda lover]

Perhaps they would do well in small lava rock.

[LadySoren]

How do you stake a Phal to stabilize the roots? Like when there is no bloom spike to attach it to.

[Wild Orchid]

Originally Posted by LadySoren

How do you stake a Phal to stabilize the roots? Like when there is no bloom spike to attach it to.

I attach phals with a small root system to a plastic fork and then secure the fork with a couple of lava rocks.

I also drill the holes in the wall and use some plastic ties to attach the Phal.

This way, the Phal is secured and the roots have freedom to grow whatever way they prefer without a burden of supporting a wobbly plant.

[Island Girl]

^thats a good idea about drilling holes in the side of the pot, and securing the phal to that... Thanks

[czygyny]

Too bad I just invested in about 20 6" azalea type of pots from Lowe's for 49¢ each. They're discontinuing them, and I find all sorts of uses for that proportion of pot. But they can be used for lots of other plants than my orchids.

I've been toying with investing in clear pots. Maybe I'll order up some for the next up-sizing, or down-sizing (if the plant is struggling) potting session.

[Orchidhound56]

Remember to use K-L-N rooting hormone.

[The Orchid Boy]

Yes! Get clear pots! I love them and know exactly when to water.

[SouthPark]

Originally Posted by Bruce Ah Sing

To grow any orchid successfully one needs to study its natural habitat. Phalies are epiphytes. They grow best when roots are on top of any compost. The best I have seen were in north Queensland, Australia and grown in volcanic gravel in troughs and heavily fertilized

Years late here. Bruce ----- are you still around? Just asking here - because your Private Message function is disabled - basically unable to PM you (about an orchid you mentioned on orchidtalk years ago --- not on orchidboard).

[Idiggi]

Maybe it takes awhile for more root growth to establish. Sorry if my spelling is wrong. Im am new to orchid keeping but im determind to learn everything about phals and cyns and cattas 😀🌺

[SouthPark]

Originally Posted by Idiggi

Maybe it takes awhile for more root growth to establish. Sorry if my spelling is wrong. Im am new to orchid keeping but im determined to learn everything about phals and cyns and cattas 😀🌺

I agree with this. When the plants have suitable growing conditions, the roots will eventually just grow everywhere once the plant has established itself.