Semi-Impulsive Mount for Phal

[redperphexion]

Hi guys.

I don't think I've got the knack for orchids. This is the second Phal that I've neglected and then over-watered and damaged its roots.

So, today, in a last-ditch effort to save her (that was very spontaneous), I tried my very first mount. I'm not sure she'll make it, but who knows.

I've got pictures - any comments/suggestions are welcome.

[cb977]

I think you've done a great job and she doesn't look that bad at all!

Spray the sphag/root area once a day and keep it in filtered semi-bright light. Mine do best just outside the brightest area where I keep the Catts. I've learned along the way that they like a bit more light than we are led to believe

Keep us posted

[RosieC]

Looks good to me as well (although I'm not an expert in mounted 'chids).

The plant looks quite healthy just now which should give it a good chance to grow some nice new roots to attach to that mount.

[redperphexion]

Thanks, guys. The reason I knew something was up is that she yellowed and dropped her biggest leaf in a matter of 2 days. (Hence yellowed stem area.) Then I started looking closer and the roots are turning that sad 'sick' colour you can see in the picture.

I plan to spritz with room temp water with a couple of drops of 8-7-6 (that's all I have...) once each morning. Should I spray the leaves with the same or water without and fert?

I'll let you know how it goes!

[cb977]

Just water each day, add the fertilizer once a week or maybe even 10 days. The way you hung it (upside-down) is perfect because you don't have to worry about water sitting in the top and causing crown rot

[Nic100]

Good going - I've only mounted one Phal so don't know much about it yet, but I do find that even though I spray it once a day I have to water it more frequently than my potted Phals.
Good luck and keep us posted!

[Nic100]

Originally Posted by cb977

Just water each day, add the fertilizer once a week or maybe even 10 days. The way you hung it (upside-down) is perfect because you don't have to worry about water sitting in the top and causing crown rot

Missed this while I was posting! I don't seem to have to do mine every day, but it's a bit cold and damp here at the moment! Brr!

[redperphexion]

So wait, is spaying with a squirt bottle the same as watering daily? I can soak the moss completely with my srayer... or does the wood need to get well soaked to keep the humidity up? I suppose this would entail a good pour of water over the whole kit and kaboodle.

[cb977]

Each of us have to make adjustments to allow for our personal environment...here in hot Florida, I need to at least mist the roots heavily every day, although sometimes I do skip a day

Some people soak their mounts but it's not something I can comment on since I care for mine differently.

I'm sure our other friends will chime in and give you the advice that will work for you

[Nic100]

Not sure what other people do, but I spray daily, and pour water over it a couple of times a week to soak it too. I don't need to soak mine every day, but when I was only spraying it would be bone dry by evening. Hope I haven't confused matters...