Using agri-fos systemic fertilizer with fuzzy orchid

[Mercurianmad]

So I just got some systemic Agri-fos. The instructions talk about putting it in a sprayer. How do you guys use it? Thus is for possible fuzzy fungus on the roots of my phalaenopsis rescue. Should I drench the pot like soaking it in the fungicide? Or just pour it through the medium? I need to get this fuzz under control before the roots can get healthy, I think.

Then hopefully the kelpmaxx stuff will help the roots grow. All other factors seem set up now- aeration, watering, drainage, humidity tray. I just want this little guy to get healthy, although I’m not sure how new leaves are going to grow with the big leaf on top being so twisted over the plant...oh well. We’ll get there when we get there. Root health first.

[SouthPark]

Before applying it ------ it might be beneficial to show photos of the fuzz on the roots.

What does the instructions say? It is certainly possible to use this product on roots. Just need to apply a recommended amount of this substance to the recommended amount of water.

Normally, you can spray the whole plant - leaves, stem, roots and all. And wear gloves etc - just in case. And don't breathe any mist etc in. Also - if any water accumulates in pockets of the plant, then try to tip out that water (stuck in pockets between leaves etc).

[Mercurianmad]

Here are some pictures of the plant fuzz. As far as I can tell it’s just on the roots. After this I’m planning on using some kelpmaxx on it to stimulate new root growth, but I don’t know if it will make much difference until the fuzz is taken care of.

[Mercurianmad]

The instructions say to fill sprayer 1/4 to 1/2 way full of water then fill with remaining amount of agri fos. To add the agri fos slowly and agitate, also to agitate while spraying. It says in the back it can be used as a soil drench method, but I’m not sure how. Also it’s super poisonous so I’m going to have to be careful using it.

Do I have to wear gloves when I water my orchids after using it if it’s poisonous?

[SouthPark]

This product isn't deadly or anything like that to humans. Just use the usual precautions like gloves, and don't breathe in the vapours or get the mist from the spray into your mouth, nose eyes etc.

Once you've sprayed the orchid and everything has dried up, everything should be fine after that. You can then water the orchid (later) without needing gloves etc.

You don't need to do any soil drench here. Just spray on the whole plant - roots and all. And then just allow the plant to take it in, and dry.

[Ray]

Personally, I wouldn't bother with the fungicide. You're not going to save those roots; they're just too far gone. The mold is consuming the dead tissue and will not progress into healthy tissue.

[Mercurianmad]

Thank you for your help everyone. I’ve got to see if it can pull through. I haven’t thrown out a rescue orchid yet☺️ One last, possibly stupid question. After I treat the roots should I repot the orchid in new medium?

[SouthPark]

Due to uncertainty about whether or not the old medium partly contributed to issues ----- potting in new medium would remove that uncertainty. So using new medium is likely a good idea.

[Mercurianmad]

Had to post an update and let you know that we did it! 3 new roots are growing from the base of the sick plant! The fuzz is gone. The leaves are greener. It will probably take 6 months to a year to fully rehabilitate but we have turned a corner for sure. Thank you to first Rays kelp max. Thank you to southpark for recommending the fungicide. And to everyone else for your suggestions which have been so helpful!

[SouthPark]

That's awesome MM. Fuzz gone and leaves greener is really good news. Three new roots growing is excellent too.