Brown roots in orchids

Orchids are amazing plants that require special care to maintain their health and beauty. One of the common problems that owners may face is browning of orchid roots. In this article, we will discuss brown roots in orchids, what to do in such cases, and why the roots turn brown. Understanding the causes of this problem will help you properly care for your orchid and prevent its decline.

Why do orchid roots turn brown?

1. Overwatering: one of the main reasons why orchid roots have turned brown is overwatering. Orchids, especially epiphytic species, cannot tolerate excessive amounts of water. When the roots are in an overly wet environment, they begin to rot, leading to browning.
   • Rotting roots: rotting occurs due to a lack of oxygen. When roots are constantly in water, they do not get enough air, and the decomposition process begins. Brown roots usually become soft and lose their firmness.
2. Lack of water: on the other hand, roots can also turn brown due to a lack of water. In this case, they become dry and brittle. Insufficient watering leads to the roots losing moisture and being unable to maintain the plant's normal condition.
3. Accumulation of salts and minerals: why are orchid roots brown? This may be due to the accumulation of salts and minerals in the substrate. Using hard water and improper fertilizers leads to salt buildup, which over time damages the roots and causes them to brown.
4. Root aging: brown roots can also be a natural sign of aging. Older roots gradually lose their function and die, turning brown. This is a normal process, and in this case, you simply need to remove the old roots to make room for new ones.
5. Poor substrate: if the substrate is too dense or has begun to decompose, this can also lead to browning of the roots. The substrate should provide good air circulation and dry out quickly after watering. Poor substrate can hold too much moisture, causing the roots to rot.

What to do if orchid roots turn brown?

1. Inspect the roots: the first thing to do if orchid roots have turned brown is to remove the plant from the pot and inspect the root system. Roots that appear soft, dark, or slimy should be removed, as they can no longer perform their function.
2. Trim damaged roots: use sharp, sterilized scissors to carefully trim all damaged roots. Be sure to remove any roots that look rotten or have an unpleasant odor to prevent the spread of rot to healthy parts of the plant.
3. Treat with antiseptic: after trimming, it is recommended to treat the root cuts with an antiseptic, such as activated charcoal powder or cinnamon. This will help prevent infection and speed up the healing of the cuts.
4. Repot in fresh substrate: after treating the roots, repot the orchid in fresh, well-draining substrate. The best substrate for orchids is bark, which provides good air circulation and dries quickly, preventing waterlogging.
5. Adjust watering: to prevent the recurrence of brown roots, it is important to water the orchid correctly. Water the plant when the substrate is almost completely dry but not entirely. Make sure excess water drains freely from the pot, and never leave the orchid sitting in water for long periods.
6. Use quality water: use soft, filtered, or distilled water to water orchids. If you use tap water, let it sit for 24 hours to allow chlorine to dissipate. This will help prevent salt buildup in the substrate.

Preventing brown roots

1. Regular root inspection: periodically inspect the orchid's root system, especially during repotting. This will help detect early rot and take action.
2. Maintain proper watering regimen: water the orchid when the substrate becomes almost dry. Avoid overwatering, as this is the main cause of brown roots.
3. Use the right substrate: the substrate should provide good aeration for the roots. Periodically refresh the substrate to avoid its decomposition and deterioration of conditions for the roots.
4. Proper fertilization: use fertilizers specifically designed for orchids and follow the recommended concentrations. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to salt buildup and root damage.

Conclusion

Brown roots in orchids are a serious problem that requires attention and timely action. By understanding why the roots turn brown and following care recommendations, you can prevent further deterioration of your plant's condition and ensure its health. Proper watering, using quality substrate, and regular root inspection will help your orchid thrive and delight you with its beauty.