Roots changing
 

Why are my roots turning brown?

Is the bark new? It's possible that the tannins are staining the roots, although I find it odd that the browning is in specific spots.

I've got Phals whose older roots look like that too. If the roots are firm, no worries. They look healthy from what I can see.

Tannins from the bark are staining the roots. Nothing to be concerned over.

I've had this problem as well. Humidity could be too low, and mineral concentrations in the water you are using could be too high.

On a related note...what are black spots on orchid roots from?

To specify, the spots are on otherwise healthy roots. The roots are firm, not shriveled or mushy.

Got a pic?

Always helps to see rather than to guess. Different problems can sometimes manifest themselves in similar ways.

Alright, you've asked for it. Meet Stubby, the one-root wonder. In case you are wondering, he is doing well now. About to put out a new leaf, as a matter of fact.

And here are the black spots on his single stub of a root. (Im sure he will grow new ones soon!) :-D

The spots havent really progressed. But they did show up after I drastically changed his growing conditions- pulled him out of his pot, mounted him on a stick, and started watering him by sticking him in the fish tank. And he gets a few hours of sun now, too.

He responded to the change by dropping his two bottom leaves, developing a reddish tinge to the edges of the rest, and hinting ever-so-slightly of a new leaf to come. It is sort of peeking out lol, I swear. I have a pic to prove it.

And don't make fun of him :-( he's sensitive.

Lauraeli, now protect your baby from all us mean people in here... LOL Just teasing you.