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Thread: Using clear slotted pots, roots and algae

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  1. #1
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    Default Using clear slotted pots, roots and algae

    I have a couple questions concerning the use of the clear slotted pots. If you have some roots that end up growing through the slots what do you do when it comes time to pot up?
    With using clear pots in general the roots that grow along the inside of the pot can turn green. Is this ok? When potting up since these roots have been exposed to light do they need to go back in a clear container? Can algae prevent roots from receiving enough air?

  2. #2
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    Jeff Tucker
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    I'm a big fan of clear slotted pots for phalaenopsis. When you repot them you can cut off any roots that have grown out through the slots. It won't hurt the orchid. If you wish to save those roots you can cut up the plastic pot instead. But of course that ruins the pot.

    The roots should turn green when the plant is watered and turn white as the medium dries out. But if the inside of the pot is turning green then you do have algae which is pretty common with clear pots. I don't know if it will eventually become a problem or not. Flushing the pot well, once a month will help flush out excess fertilizer salts and letting the medium get a little drier between waterings will both help control algae. I use Physan 20 at a rate of 1 teaspoon per gallon, once a month to control fungus, algae and bacteria. It doesn't completely eradicate the algae but it does keep it under control most of the time.

    Since I always use clear pots, I can't answer the question about moving them back into an ordinary pot. I would imagine that it would probably be OK.

  3. #3
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    The type of algae that grows inside clear pots are not a problem. Those are similar to the algae that grow inside S/H pots.
    At that scale, there is no way that the algae can starve the roots of water or form a blanket so thick that it becomes airtight and starves the roots of air.

    The roots that grow out of the slots are unfortunate casualties when it is time to repot, unless you are willing to lose the plastic pot. It is a similar situation as wood and plastic baskets.

  4. #4
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    Kelly
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    Default

    In my experience, clear pots get algae, clay pots get mold. Not a whole lot you can do about it and neither is particularly dangerous in my experience. I think either is fine, it just depends on what is aesthetically pleasing to you combined with your personal watering regime. I've also read that roots can photosynthesize, so in a way, clear pots may be better light-wise.

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    Thank you all for the help.

  6. #6
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    Bruce Brown
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    Plastic pots are cheap, so if the roots have grown through the slots, take a pair of scissors and cut the pot away. Just my 2 cents!

    cheers,
    BD

  7. #7
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    That's what I plan on doing when the time comes Bruce. I think it will be easier than the slotted baskets too, less to cut.

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