New root on my phal?

[Fuzzy]

Hi, is this a new root on my phal? This plant really needs new roots (and leaves, for that matter). It lost a lot of roots due to rot last month.

Also, a question about root rot. If you notice any rotting roots (visible in clear pot), is this grounds for immediate repotting and trimming, or can I leave them be if most roots look fine? I hate to stress this plant even further.

[Atzau]

yup, looks like a new root...

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[Bill U.]

This is a new root coming out from the crown

When you have a phal that is potted in a clear or visible container and see only a few (like one or two) roots that are starting to rot, but the rest look okay, you are observing a process called senescence (getting old). The roots on just about any plant will not last forever, it is constantly going to go through a process of adding new roots to replace old roots that are not as functional anymore. That is why it looks like one or two of those roots are dying, but the others look fine.

If there is only one or two roots that seem to be rotting, but the rest look okay, I would leave it alone. Something to look into to further help your situation if you have doubts about root rot is the "skewer method" to manage watering. You will be able to find it in other posts here on the OB Beginner forums. In most basic form- take a bamboo skewer (often people find them for grilling or something like that) and insert it towards the center of your pot, close to the main root ball, taking care not to impale too many roots. Initially, check the skewer every day to monitor the moisture levels. If the skewer is dry, then water. If it is still damp, wait until dry or almost dry to water, (I tend to lean more towards the dry- to be on the safe side). Once you get the hang of your phals moisture usage, you can check it once every couple days or so. **Water usage will change when going through vegetative growth or with seasonal change! Make sure to monitor more during these times!**

Hope this helped.

Bill

[RosieC]

Yes new root

[judith_arquette]

I just had my first new root growth recently and know how exciting that is. Congrats & Great Job!!!

[lotis146]

So great, so great!! Happy rooting.

[Fuzzy]

This is me again, I have a question. How fast do new roots usually grow on phals? My phal's little new root is coming in so slow, I'm worried it is not doing well. I'm attaching an updated picture, this is a week after the original picture was taken. It barely grew 1/8-1/4 of an inch in a week. Actually, another question - what is this white ring around the base of the new root? Does this indicate it's not humid enough and the little root is drying out?

[judith_arquette]

They grow PAINFULLY slowly. It still looks good and healthy to me but a more experienced/knowledgeable member may have better input.

[kindrag23]

SLOW AS A SNAIL! Root looks healthy, and happy. Just takes time to grow them. You are doing good

[Atzau]

the white rim is probably just the rest of the root growing out... the white vellum i think...

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