The most important part of a Phalaenopsis, if you want to grow a healthy plant, is its roots. The roots of orchids are somewhat unique in function and appearance because they are not intended for growth in soil, but rather for growth attached to a tree. They are of varying thicknesses as the plant grows, but a blooming-size Phalaenopsis has roots that are about as thick as a pencil.

Phalaenopsis roots are covered in a white rice-paper-like sheath called velamen and are green. The roots are green because they contain chlorophyll and they actually photosynthesize. The tip of the root will be either green or a brownish color (depending on the variety) when the plant is actively growing.

Phalaenopsis roots act like sponges; soaking up the available water and saving it for later use. This is beneficial for an orchid on a tree, but can be dangerous to the potted orchid. When watering your Phalaenopsis, it is a good idea to let the plant sit in water for a little while. The plant will continue to absorb water for quite a while. I usually let them soak for a couple of hours, then dump the water and tilt the orchid pot to drain any excess.

Sometimes people forget to take their plants out of the water, or maybe they water too frequently. In either case, Phalaenopsis roots can not withstand much abuse. A healthy Phalaenopsis root should feel firm, like a carrot. If it is mushy and brown, it is rotten.

Rotten roots should be cut off and treated with a fungicide. If too many roots are lost, the plant is likely to die. This is where most would-be orchid enthusiasts lose faith. Most successful orchid growers have killed their share of orchids this way. It takes practice and at least a little devotion to learn how to water your orchids, but I’m telling you, it’s absolutely simple.

I grow all of my Phalaenopsis in clear plastic pots. I nest them inside a decorative pot to give the pot some weight, but it is essential to be able to see the roots of your orchid - especially when you are just learning how to grow them.

Estimate that your orchids should go about a week between waterings, if you sufficiently water them in the first place. When you are nearing the week mark, check daily to see if there is condensation inside the pot. If there is, it probably doesn’t need water. I usually water before the moisture is entirely gone, but if you are worried, wait. You will get to know the weight of a pot that is ready to be watered after you have done this several weeks in a row. Just look to see if there is moisture in the pot. You can’t go wrong!