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has been scientifically proven to be incorrect . Even when tight , the moss has plenty of air space .
Root pruning — if necessary to fit the plant into its new container — can be healthy . Fang suggests using a rooting hormone ( basal ) solution , such as Dip ’ N Grow , at the recommended rate . After potting a root-pruned plant , withhold regular watering , withhold fertilizer and reduce the light for the first month . Allow for good air movement and don ’ t crowd the plants , and soon new roots will break through .
Clear or transparent pots are preferred for several reasons . They allow you to see the condition of the root system and help determine the moisture content of the moss . Because roots also photosynthesize , clear pots allow this to occur , causing new roots to grow down into the pot in search of moisture rather than remaining aerial as often occurs with plants growing in opaque plastic pots filled with bark mixes .
If you feel the moss isn ’ t drying out enough under your conditions , add about 30 percent charcoal or bamboo charcoal to the moss to aid the drying process . However , once the plant has reached a 6-inch ( 15-cm ) pot size , discontinue the use of moss and change to another medium to avoid potential root rot . Fang points out that you ’ ll achieve better growth and flowering from your plants if they are grown in moss and , in the long run , it ’ s actually less expensive to use due to its longevity before needing replacement .
For those who want to get their moss-grown plants established in a different medium , the shift in growing medium involves a transition from a constantly even moisture supply to one that can often be erratic . Again , a little extra care when repotting will help the plant make this transition easier .
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8 . For best root growth , a mature Phalaenopsis plant potted in sphagnum moss needs to become slightly dry between waterings .
9 . Wrap new sphagnum moss around the rootball . Completely encircle the rootball with the moss and then insert it into the container . Leave at least 1inch ( 2.5 cm ) at the top to allow for efficient watering .
10 . Aiming water directly into the pot reduces waste . When watering , it is best to use a small water breaker with a fine and soft output .
11 . Setting clear pots in a shuttle tray allows for maximum light at the roots .
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22 Phalaenopsis | First Quarter | Volume 23 | 2013