Question
My coworker has an orchid which he has had for the past 2 years.  The roots are growing out of it, and we were both wondering if some of the roots would get clipped off would it kill or freak the orchid.  Definitely do not want to harm the orchid in any way.  Am I better off buying one without anything happening to his orchid.

Answer
Hello Lorraine,

Well, the answer is: it depends.  

Depending upon what kind of orchid it is (you didn't mention this), it may or may not be okay to cut the roots.  Orchid roots that tend to grow long roots with few or no branching roots growing off them, it is better to not cut them.  For roots that have roots branching off them, it is okay to cut the roots to about 6 inches long.  After cutting roots, allow them to air cure for about an hour before potting the orchid plant.  

If roots are growing outside of the pot, it may be time to repot the orchid.  Again, depending upon what type of orchid it is would determine what potting media to use and what size pot to put it in.  

Sorry I could not be of more help but if you can write back with the name of the orchid, I may be able to offer more advice.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.