Date: 28.01.2010

Are the Orchid roots healthy?

Orchid roots have multiple puposes a) Mechanical - to cling on to the trees and rocks in their habitat b) Nutrition - to absorb water and minerals c) Other - Some orchid roots even perform photosynthesis when exposed to sunlight

Healthy roots are light green in dry conditions and can appear dark geen after watering. The tip of the healthy root is shiny light green, long and pointed. This indicates healthy growth.

Unhealthy orchid roots are white when dry and tan when wet. Few roots can be dead in a healthy orchid. General health of the plant could be tested by gently lifting the plants from the potting media without causing any damage. However if the plant is healthy the roots are likely to be healthy.

Photos: Comonara Wildcat Carmela Click here for more on this plant

How does healthy leaves look like?

Although this cannot be generalised, lightly coloured, thick and hard leaves can be considered as healthy. Leaves should be free of spots or discolouration. Leaves could change from time to time according to the availability of sunlight.