Root rot

[boborch]

Hello all,
I've never seen such a talkative forum! Such a response to my first post encourages me to mention here my friend's Phalaenopsis. A leaf yellowed and dropped, so I opened it all up and discovered that the roots were packed in what appears to me to be sphagnum, but packed very tightly, and the whole root package stuffed into an open top plastic bag with no holes in it, which I suppose was for shipping purposes. It didn't stand a chance of getting aerated. I think the roots have rotted (see photo). I can't find pics on the web of rotted roots, though it matches some written descriptions I've found. Can anyone confirm this is rot? Is there any chance of recovery?
Sincerely,
Bob

[sunset]

The root system seems to be in bad condition. It must be confirmed.

You have to verify if the collet is rotted (phalaenopsis base). I think it is because of yellow color. If not, i suggest you to cut all rotted roots and to try to acclimate the plant.

In my opinion, I will throw it because you will waste a lot of time to save if it's possible !

Philippe

[Gin]

If you want to save it remove the dark soft squishy roots , I see some new starting up high , use (straight) durg store peroxcide on the base of the plant , avoiding the new start of roots up high . Remove old or new spikes , pot it so the new nubs are under the mix , place in a shaded location . As Philippe posted if the base is soft (rotted) it has had it . Gin

[Piper]

Hi Bob,

I'm only repeating what's been said, but roots both dark and squishy and dark and crispy are dead, dead, dead. Wash off all the sphagnum and examine what you have. Use your imagination and consider what might be alive or croaked. Alive is a full, fat root, either green or white. Dead is a shriveled root, spongy or crispy.

There's a longing to save an ill plant, which we all respond to. But it may not be the most rewarding orchid experience for a beginner (particularly if the plant's a gonner!) I believe that was Philippe's point. Your patient doesn't look too good. Maybe euthanizing this one and starting with a healthy plant for your first would be more satisfactory?

The forum here doesn't allow explicit advertising, but depending on your area, many members here could private message you with reliable sources for good plants.

Good luck!
Julie

[boborch]

Thanks all. Yes, it's a shame to not be able to rescusitate, but it isn't my brother after all, just a plant. I'll do the trimming etc as above, to see what happens, but won't exert myself. Many thanks.
Bob