What Are The Green Stem Like Things Near The Bottom Of The Leaves?

by Mary
(Mesa Az)

I just bought an orchid...and there are these green stem like things that grow outside of the pot near the bottom of the leaves. What are they, why are they there and what should I do with them?
Thanks.... and glad I found you!!!
Mary

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Oct 28, 2011
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by: Mary

Thanks guys. Now I'll relax about them.
Oct 26, 2011
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by: Melissa

Hi Mary, Thanks for your question. Again it is a good one.

The green stem like things that grow outside of the pot near the bottom of the leaves are the Roots of the orchid. These orchids are epiphytes which essentially means that their roots like to grow in the air. And that is what these roots are doing.

Why are they there?

They are there like any plant roots, to help the plant be stable in the medium it is attached to and to bring water and nutrients to the plant so it can grow and bloom.

What should you do with them?

Nothing really. Be happy they are there if they are healthy. Healthy roots equals a healthy orchid. Just appreciate that they are there.

If you are repotting you can tuck some of them into the new media if they will bend without breaking. But over time they will grow out of the pot again. Just the nature of the kind of orchid.

I am glad you found us too!!! Please feel free to write back if you have any more questions.

Melissa
www.orchids-plus-more.com
Oct 26, 2011
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by: Anonymous

They are part of your orchid. I was told not to remove them.

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