Five new orchids and questions about their health.

[bil]

Just remember that peroxide is an indiscriminate oxidiser.

[gngrhill]

The Phal looks ok. You can repot or not as it pleases you. Phals don't seem to mind being repotted at any time. I think you will find that any new leaves that form will be normal once your routine is settled so it gets good care. The old leaves probably won't straighten, but the new ones should come in ok.

[Pencil]

I repotted one Oncidium. All of the roots were healthy and I don't think it actually needed repotting. Unfortunately, the German orchid mix I bought has 80% bark and 20% coco fiber. From what I can see, it retains more moisture. Strangely, I can't find bark only anywhere. Do you think this is a good choice?

[gngrhill]

It's probably ok as long as you are really careful about your watering. You will have to make sure that it's nearly dry before watering. Oncids like a lot of water, so retention shouldn't be too much of a problem as long as your pot has lots of air holes and you don't keep it soggy wet.