Repotted blooming Phal due to tiny white pests and withering roots

[swhite73]

I'm pretty new to orchid growing, and my latest acquisition has me running to OB every week! After "eavesdropping" for the past few months, I finally joined the forum today to make sure I don't lose another plant. Thanks to everyone for the great info and positive atmosphere!
I purchased a "just add ice" Phal from wal-mart in April this year. It's in an East-facing window behind blinds, I water every 7-10 days until the medium is moist but with no standing water. Room temperature stays between 74-80 F.
About a month ago the leaves nearest the window got patches that are white and thin with black edges - I took it to be sunburn as the patches are at the same level of where one of the blinds is missing. I fixed the blinds and the spots have stayed the same size and dry.
Then the top-most leaf began to curl under and started growing upside down. I redirected it to grow right-side up but it's still significantly curled. Since then a new leaf has grown and is now 1.5" long.
2 days ago I noticed white bugs crawling on the soil only. They're so small I couldn't tell whether they're springtails or fungus gnats. They don't seem to jump and I've had a few flying pests in my apartment too, so I'm leaning toward gnats.
When I examined the roots, all that are growing to the outside of the container appear to be healthy with several new sprouts forming, but roots in the center of the container are withered and brown and the potting medium seems very degraded. I have 8 beautiful flowers that I hate to lose, but I'd hate to lose the whole plant even more so I re-potted in "Hoffman's special orchid mix", which I boiled and let cool prior to potting. It has quite a bit of charcoal so I hope it will last longer than the medium my Phal came in.
Any suggestions, tips, or chiding? I welcome it all and will post pictures soon.

Thanks!

Sarah

[marydaniellesantos]

It sounds like you did the right thing. (At least that's what I would have done.) Phals can be repotted during bloom periods, but it's not recommended, but it should be fine. Also they like luke warm water to be sprayed with, and indirect light. I don't know who came up with just add ice cubes, but since Phals love warmth, it must be annoying to have cold feet. Lol.

You're doing great by the way!

[Zoi2]

Hello and welcome to the OB.
Joann

[marydaniellesantos]

Yes, Welcome!!!

[Rosiefuture]

Originally Posted by swhite73

Any suggestions, tips, or chiding? I welcome it all and will post pictures soon.

Thanks!

Sarah

Hi Sarah, welcome to the board, no one here is going to chide you, I have found nothing but friendliness, help and support here. I have been growing orchids for over 10 years but only just been growing Phals since the beginning of the year. I've received heaps of help and support here and learned a great deal.

Hope you enjoy the orchid obsession!

Marion