Just started growing orchids and already a problem

[McGoo]

I noticed that the flowers where falling off and then I saw these little white granules on them. There are also some little flying gnats around.

I don't want to be defeated before I get started
What can I do to solve this problem ...if it is one?

thanks,
Colleen

[Swamper]

Hi Colleen, can you tell us a little more about the plant, what kind is it, did the flower fall off prematurely, do you see anything wrong with the leaves, stems, roots? Do you have pictures? Oh and welcome to the OB

[McGoo]

Swamper, I have two, and although they are differnt colors, I think that they are both Phalaenopsis. I have only had them 3 wks. I water them weekly and use a fertilizer recommended for orchids. I have them in my bathroom and keep them in a tray filled with water... I dont' have them soaking, they are above the tray of water... just used for humidity.
And I really don't know if a flower is ready to come off or prematurely falling off...sorry.
Colleen

[Swamper]

Do you see any changes in the stems or leaves or roots and what about the pictures, any chance of that. I would spray with alcohol for starters just to kill any bugs that are possibly on there now. Gnats in the bathroom? Not cool!!! You know I would re-pot the whole thing too if you didn't do so when you bought it.

YouTube - The Orchid Doctor - How to Replant an Orchid Part 1 - orchidmania south florida

[McGoo]

I watched both videos... he makes the repotting look easy. I hate to clip off all the remaining flowers, but it does sound like I should ... and then jsut start fresh and clean. I wanted to get new pots anyway, so I guess I should bite the bullet.

Do you recommend any particular medium?
Thanks

[Swamper]

I like medium that dries quick, if I use medium at all
Repot into S/H

[McGoo]

Thanks so much.
If I spray the plants with alcohol am I supposed to avoid the root systems? I noticed that in the youtube video. He didn't say it, but seemed to.

I'm going to drive up to the Orchid store near me. Actually, I didn't buy my orchid there - should have. I'll get the supplies that I need there. they're about an hour away and I've always wanted to go. They're open on Sundays... so it's a great rainy day trip. Stay tuned.

[quiltergal]

McGoo, the medium you choose really depends on what your conditions are like. Swamper lives in warm humid Florida, so Semi Hydro works well for him. I live in Oregon where we have 2 seasons, freezing cold and boiling hot, and not much humidity to speak of. I find S/H dries out too fast in my conditions, so plants making the adjustment to semi hydro really struggle. I probably won't use it again. Coconut husk chunks or fir bark mixed with perlite and charcoal seems to work best for me. I use bark on plants that like to dry quickly and CHC for things like Paphs and Phals that need more moisture. Where in the US are you?

[Swamper]

What? Doesn't everybody live in Florida? JK That's a good point, and the video is in Florida too. I don't know why I just assumed you did. Man life is so much easier growing orchids with those clay balls.

[Swamper]

BTW Colleen be sure to ask a ton of questions at that orchid store you are going to. Don't hold back, they love answering all the questions you may think are silly. Have fun