Bought two "no name" phals today

[Lagoon]

Agreed, good deal! One thing I always find that the orchids found in the big box stores are in need of repotting, another reason why we get these plants cheaper. Just because the bark seems ok on the top, doesn't meen it isn't broken down further inside. So a little caution could be used when watering. A wooden BBQ stick will help guide you if you place one deep inside the pot

Very cool on the photo's and like the name too, Helen

[Shadow]

Good buy! I vote for immediate repotting (I don't insist, but I have problems with all orchids that were not repotted immediately)

[Helen]

Thanks everyone!
I was wondering the best way to sterilize cutting tools when I cut the roots. I can't use a blow torch like some books advise! How about rubbing alcohol? or hot soapy water with some bleach?

***Also would I use the same pot after sterlizing? The roots pretty tight to the pot and long.***
Thanks again

[Helen]

I wonder how long it will be before the last few buds on each of my bargain plants bloom? I'm getting pretty anxious now.

***I have yet another question: I just read that after a phal finishes blooming it should be set in a cooler temp, approx. 10 degrees diff, for approx. 6 weeks, then bring back to normal temp. and it will send off another spike....***
Do all of you agree with this? Is this really necessary?
Thanks again

[Shadow]

Originally Posted by FirstTimer

I just read that after a phal finishes blooming it should be set in a cooler temp, approx. 10 degrees diff, for approx. 6 weeks, then bring back to normal temp. and it will send off another spike....***
Do all of you agree with this? Is this really necessary?
Thanks again

It is not necessary for hybrid phals.

[Helen]

thanks Shadow...this will make my life a little easier.
Have a good day

[Shadow]

You are welcome!

Originally Posted by FirstTimer

I was wondering the best way to sterilize cutting tools when I cut the roots. I can't use a blow torch like some books advise! How about rubbing alcohol? or hot soapy water with some bleach?

***Also would I use the same pot after sterlizing? The roots pretty tight to the pot and long.***
Thanks again

I use the open fire to sterilize the blade after every single cut.

You can use the same pot after sterilizing if it is not too small for the plant or bigger one.

[Ross]

Wow! Missed this thread. Thanks for alerting me to it Helen.

Roots look OK. White roots simply mean healthy DRY roots on Phals. I like to keep mine looking green or greenish - not white and papery. Once they get papery, they are pretty-much done. I would repot (can't tell proper size of pot, but would suggest 1-2 inches (2-4cm) wider than current pot.) No more than that. Would dump all of the current potting mix. Clean it off the roots if that doesn't damage the roots. If you don't think bark will come away cleanly, leave it attached to roots. Use new bark to repot. Now I personally use very large bark for potting up Phals because lots of air spaces, but many here promte mixes or sphagnum. I would soak the bark in K-L-N mix Product Listing - Dyna-Gro K-L-N Root Growth Stimulant - 8 ounce Bottle for at least 8-10 hours before using the new bark to repot the orchid. Don't resume fertilizing until you are convinced plant has stabilized from the repotting (usually about 2-3 weeks) but water at least once per week or more depending on your home conditions (dry or not dry). This is how I treat mine and it works for me, but others have their plans which are all valid.

[Helen]

Wow! Missed this thread. Thanks for alerting me to it Helen
Ross, glad you could respond after seeing my root pictures...I already repotted one, and I did not soak the medium....uh oh... I will for the next one. Maybe some extra spritzes of water during the week...???
And, I've never heard of the KLN, so I'll have to pick some up. I can always use it for future repotting..
Thanks for your valuable input! I appreciate it very much.

[smartie2000]

Another way of sterilizing things is to use bleach...I couldn't possibly flame everything.