Is it ok for an orchid's roots to be exposed?

Question

I just bought an orchid and the roots are exposed on the top of the little plastic pot that it is in...they are growing out of the soil and are exposed to the air...is that normal/okay?

Answer 1

yes it is normal, but that means it may be in too small of a pot. you can just add some wood chips or a sandy soil to the top of the pot for now, just enough to cover the exposed roots

Answer 2

Many Orchids produce aerial roots, which do not necessarily have to be secure into the rooting medium.   Some Orchids are fully terrestrial  - growing in the ground, whilst many live on places like trees, where the roots help absorb water and nutrients, as well as help keep them secure.  Phalaenopsis, the Moth Orchid, is one such plant, and is the most commonly grown Orchid today - see here: http://www.phalaenopsis.net.  They have fleshy oval leaves, and send shoots up with flowers on.

I wouldn't bother with the aerial roots, and don't rush to cut them off, as the Phalaenopsis roots can also photosynthesise, which helps the plant to strengthen and grow.  Repot when it has really outgrown its container,  and only every couple of years or so, under typical growth.  http://www.midpacificorchids.citymax.com...

Do this if the potting medium, typically chopped bark, breaks down too.  This is typical for most Orchids.  As you've just bought yours, it probably doesn't need repotting just yet.

Hope this helps.  Good luck!  Rob

Answer 3

Hmm, it might be OK, depending on how down far the roots reach. Try to cover them with soil.