What are orchid roots supposed to look like?

Orchid roots should be silvery-white and firm. If they’re papery, black, brown, or mushy, then the root is dying and you should trim it off. It’s normal for some roots to poke out from the pot into the air; these are called aerial roots. When an orchid root soaks up water, it turns a bright, vibrant green with small white spots. These spots are pores that take in air so that the orchid can breathe.