Question
I have had a phalaenopsis in glorious bloom since July 2004.  It has made a huge number of long roots which are climbing out of the pot and lying on the window-sill.  Also, the plant itself looks as if it is uncomfortable, squashed up against the side of the pot as if it wants to climb out too!  How do I repot the plant, especially as the long roots are so huge?  Can any be trimmed so as to fit into a new pot?  I'd be grateful for your help, please.  Thank you, in anticipation.

Answer
Marjorie, first let me congratulate you are your excellent growing job.  First step in repotting is to obtain a supply of orchid potting mix and a pot large enough for the large root mass it will need to contain.  I do not recommend cutting healthy roots.  Soak the fresh potting mix in water for 10- 15 minutes while you are preparing your plant for repotting.  Remove the plant from its pot and discard the old potting mix.  Bathe the roots in room temperature water to help clean them of old potting mix.  Remove any roots that are "mushy" as they are dead.  By soaking the roots prior to repotting, the aerial roots will absorb water and become more flexible and less likely to break during repotting.  You will need to use a pot large enough to fit the roots.  Turn the plant or pot slowly as you ease the roots gently down into the pot.  Some of the roots will curve gently inside the pot to follow the rotation.  Before you add the new potting mix, drain off excess water for a few minutes.  Then slowly.  add the new potting mix a handful at a time.  The crown of the plant should be about two inches from the top of the pot and add mix up to the base of the plant where roots originate.  You may want to tap the bottom of the pot while adding mix to help it settle in amongst the roots.  Remember that you should be using orchid potting mix and not potting soil.