Plants within the genus Cattleya and related genera produce some of the most extensive root systems of any orchids. Their roots are thick and fleshy, and it is not unusual for a specimen to produce So per cent ofits root system outside the pot. Roots like this can be fed to great advantage. This plant can be repotted and the roots trimmed to about 6 in (15 cm), or left outside the pot.
Only occasionally is a single old leaf shed, their lifespan being for many years. The plant grows from a downward-creeping rhizome and the large green flower emerges from inside the base of the leaf. In cultivation the pendent habit should be retained and regular spraying essential.
Nevertheless their culture remains specialised, and their roots are all important to them. They do not take kindly to pot culture and should be accommodated on hark. Pieces of rough bark are ideal, as their extensive fine root system will take advantage of every crevice, the roots hugging the bark as well as growing freely in the air.
Monopodial orchids which grow tall, such as vandal, produce aerial roots from along the rhizome, from a node on the opposite side of a leaf. Here only one root is made and this will extend, rarely branching, for a considerable length. Usually one or two roots will be made each year.
An extremely attractive method of growing and displaying these little plants is on a tree branch especially cut for the purpose. It will last many years before finally rotting.Roots can be prevented from growing by inappropriate compost, or severe dryness at the wrong time.
A small group of orchids consist merely of a small crown from which bursts a mass of tangled roots. These species, among them the genus Microcoelia, have roots which produce chlorophyll.
Garlic Mushrooms, Queens of the Kitchen
