As living standards improve, many people enjoy buying one or two attractive plants from flower markets, and Phalaenopsis orchids are among the most popular choices.
With so many people buying them, more and more care-related issues also arise. For example, root rot often leads to yellowing leaves or flowers withering prematurely. In such cases, the best response is to promptly cut away the damaged roots. However, during this process, some growers ask: “When trimming, I found that although the root had rotted on the outside, there were still some green, thread-like tissues in the center. Are these still useful? Should they be kept?”
To answer this, let’s first look at the structure and function of Phalaenopsis roots. On the outside is the plump fleshy root layer, which specializes in absorbing and storing water. Inside this layer lies the hard, firm woody rhizome, whose main function is transporting water upward to the plant. Usually, root rot starts with the fleshy outer layer, while the woody rhizome inside remains intact. The tissue that growers are referring to is this part—because it is firm and not easily decayed.
Should it be kept? My suggestion is yes. Since its transport function remains, it is especially valuable when all other roots are badly rotted. Keeping the woody rhizome may help sustain the plant.
From my own experience, I once dealt with a Phalaenopsis suffering severe root rot. I switched it to hydroponics as an emergency measure and kept the woody rhizome. These tough root cores acted like little straws, slowly absorbing enough water to prevent the orchid from dying of thirst until new roots grew.
So, if your Phalaenopsis has only these thread-like woody rhizomes left, as long as they feel hard and firm (not mushy or fully decayed), keep them. Sometimes these overlooked root cores are the very lifeline that helps the orchid recover and eventually grow new roots.
Finally, after repotting, remember to regularly check on the orchid’s growth. Be careful not to overwater—keep the medium just moist, as excessive wetness easily causes rot. In addition, apply fertilizer every two weeks or so to replenish nutrients and support recovery.
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