How to Trim Dead Orchid Roots

Keep your orchid in all its glory by paying attention to what's below the soil. Orchids need air circulating through their roots. When soggy soil or plant debris clogs the airflow, roots will die and the plant will suffer. Removing dead roots opens up space and allows plant energy to focus on root growth and blooms. Orchids should be re-potted approximately every two years; this is a perfect time to give those roots a trim.

Scissors
Tall cup
Household cleaner (e.g., rubbing alcohol, Lysol, Listerine or Pine Sol)
Paper towel
Fresh potting medium (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Sterilize your scissors by submerging the blades in a cup of household cleaner. Wipe off excess liquid with a paper towel.
- 2
  Remove the orchid from its pot by tipping it to the side and wiggling the root ball out.
- 3
  With your fingers, gently scrape out the potting medium from between the roots. The roots should be free of soil clumps and debris.
- 4
  Cut out unhealthy sections of roots. Dry, hard roots as well as hollow, mushy roots are dead or unhealthy. Healthy roots will be white or green and firm. When making your cuts, cut just above the unhealthy section, making sure any rotted parts are removed.
- 5
  Carefully replant your orchid by placing the plant back in the pot and covering the roots with soil up to the crown, but not above it. You can push some soil beneath the roots but try not to compact it.

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