We have had this Epi for quite a few years. Started in a 4" pot. It is very root bound which I always thought that these where best this way. For some reason this year I have cut out quite a few branches/pads which have gone dry and brown. Did not think that it was anything other than usual, as we have had this happen with all the others never amounting to anything.
The root ball inside the pot is very hard and difficult to get any moisture into it. One of the furthermost pads of a branch is going soft and I am stumped as to what this is or is it nothing.
Not sure that any of this helps anyone to assist, but this one is one of my favorites and would hate to lose it.





I have taken some cuttings to callus as a precaution.
Can this happen from them becoming too root bound and needs repotting?
Thank you in advance.

Yellow one on right side.



Rick

Yes, it does sound like your plant would benefit from repotting. As epiphytes from tropical rainforest jungle (like orchids,) the roots need a porous, airy soil so the roots can have plenty of oxygen while staying moist.

Agree with Tiffany, a repot is okay. What media did you use before? My epis are using bark mix,some coco husk chips ,clay rocks and pumice, so it remains airy and porous.

I also get some softened padsin some of my Epis, and I notice it occurs on mine when we suddenly get a cold dip in temps, part of the pad goes yellow and dries out. Once it goes brown and brittle I just tear that part off, by then the plant has properly callused itself.