Phalaenopsis with dried up roots, other novice questions.

[Cassie16]

Hi everyone!

I have a love for the look of orchids, but sadly am horrific at caring for them. I purchased my "Just Add Ice" Orchid from Kroger's a few months back. I understand that to the more experience, Kroger's is probably not the ideal outlet for purchasing orchids; however, as a beginner, it was a readily available and convenient option.

I am a complete novice. I have tried to inform myself on orchid care, but usually grow frustrated upon reading obscurities that I can't decipher. What in the world is a node, again? And you say that I should cut below it? (above it?!) I am horrified at the thought of butchering my plant because I failed to remain attentive in 3rd quarter biology.

I digress. My point is, I am in need of some seriously dumbed down advice at how to best proceed to care for my beloved plant. I water it (as advised) with ice every 7-10 days, but will gladly revise this at your suggestion! I have a thing of fertilizer for acidophiles, but have yet to use it on this orchid (it didn't really help with the last one).

I currently have the orchid in the pot it was purchased in. I have no idea what type of soil it's in; it looks like wood chips to me. I'm afraid of removing the orchid, but can do so if necessary. I recently noticed the roots spreading out of the soil and looking dried up. A lone stem from the last flowering remains, because I don't know where (or how) (or what with) I'm supposed to cut it.

It's actually sprouting a new little leaf, which excited me, but then I noticed it was purpling at the edges, and splitting in the middle.

The orchid is placed far away from my patio windows, which the screens are mostly drawn open, that faces East. Behind it is a west facing window, whose shades are always drawn. The leaves don't look too green or greenish yellow, so I've always assumed lighting was OK.

I do not mist the orchid, should I? I did put it in the bathroom tonight with a steamy shower. I don't do this often. (ever). I'm a little paranoid at this point.

Anywho, without further ado, here's my orchid. I can easily take more pictures at different angles if it would help anyone assess the damage! I would adore any advice anyone could give me. Seriously, pardon my ignorance. I'm here to learn!