Just repotted a couple weeks ago with “Better-Gro” special Orchid potting mix, and fertilized with “Better-Gro” Orchid Better-Bloom. Leaves feel leathery and as you can see the bottom ones sagging/yellowing. This window is facing north and we’re in an apartment complex so it isn’t getting hit directly from the sun. Is there anything wrong or something different I may do to help?
How were the roots when you repotted? Did you need to take a lot of dead ones off? Was it in its original medium prior to this, (probably a densely packed ball of sphagnum moss?) How often are you watering?
0 LikesThey weren’t too bad. Yes they were in the original medium from the store with the moss in the center. Watering about every 2 weeks. The roots don’t look too dry before watering either
Got rid of all the squishy and dead roots Ofcourse
1 Like
How do you water?
0 Likes This orchid bark is very dry when freshly planted. I would soak it well then allow to dry out completely and repeat.
1 LikeI usually remove the ceramic pot and run water through the plastic pot for a couple mins and leave to dry overnight before placing back into ceramic pot.
0 Likes
Based on the media, water frequency and how you water I would address it one of two ways. One way would be to increase how often you water. The plant is thirsty and should be able to handle more. Or you can stick to the current schedule and soak the pot for 10 to 15 min. Regardless of what you do, don’t water on a schedule. Observe the plant and how it is responding to its care. If you see signs of dehydration and the roots are in reasonable shape (which seems to be what’s happening here) increase the amount of water available to it gradually. That will give you a chance to see how it responds and let you react accordingly. My phals are in all bark and and in a heavily shaded west window. They get water every 7 to 14 days. I water when the roots look dryish by soaking the pot for 10 to 15 min. But that might not be appropriate for your conditions.
3 LikesI agree with the general consensus above. You’ve gone from a very water retentive media to a very dry one- it’s a drastic change for your plant. You will need to water more frequently to maintain the moisture intake it was used to. You don’t want it wet all the time- but when you see the media is dry and the roots are silvery instead of green- water it. Even if it’s only been 5 days. Bark does not hold on to water like moss. Your orchid is just thirsty, she’ll bounce back.
2 Likes Well said!
1 LikeAwesome thank you everyone! Will take all your considerations and hopefully it’ll work🫶
2 Likes