What can I do for this orchid

[SlipperGirl]

Originally Posted by dsanfrancis

I agree with this post. If it is not a special plant, practicing how to save a plant would be the best use for this phal. Without roots with which to take up water this plant will lose moisture fast through transpiration during photosynthesis. Your best bet is to cut off most of the leaf area by cutting them all in half, if not shorter. Putting it inside of a container like a clear plastic bag like you've done will keep the remaining moisture from escaping too fast. Keep the base where the roots will grow barely moist and try placing it on something with a bit of warmth. Occasionally let some air in the container to keep things from rotting and watch it for signs of growth. Make sure to keep it out of direct light sources so as not to speed up photosynthesis past what the plant can handle. If you have rooting hormone, you can try that.

If it looks hopeless, the best place for it would be the compost bin. That way some other plant can benefit from it :]

Good luck!

I dont have any rooting hormone.

and I really really want to save this plant.

can I just cut the leaves off where the stake in the photo is?

[dsanfrancis]

You can try that first, then just watch the leaves, if they continue to wrinkle further, then there is too much leaf for the plant to sustain. Finding the balance is key. Phals do not have any water storage except through their leaves, but this is also where they lose water from during their normal growing activities. The greater the surface area to lose water, the faster it will dry out. The bag helps, but I would still say that there are too many leaves for your plant to be able to support itself without sucking itself dry.

[SlipperGirl]

Originally Posted by dsanfrancis

You can try that first, then just watch the leaves, if they continue to wrinkle further, then there is too much leaf for the plant to sustain. Finding the balance is key. Phals do not have any water storage except through their leaves, but this is also where they lose water from during their normal growing activities. The greater the surface area to lose water, the faster it will dry out. The bag helps, but I would still say that there are too many leaves for your plant to be able to support itself without sucking itself dry.

Thanks for your help I will cut the phal tonight or tomorrow

[dsanfrancis]

No problem. You may also try "watering" it by occasionally pulling the plant out, soaking the base in some water for 5-10 minutes, shaking out all the excess water, letting it air dry for a bit and then placing it back into its container (not touching any of the moss of course). This may help replenish the water (imagine how cut flowers and plants remain turgid in a vase)

[SlipperGirl]

does this look good?

[SlipperGirl]

I forgot to ask should I cut some of the small top leaf off or leave it alone?

[SlipperGirl]

I cut the leaves here are some pics hope I did it right.