Hello and advice sought

[tucansam]

Hello to all.

Over the last year or so, my wife has received three orchids, all of which are now in my care

I suspect that all three were simple big-box-store-bought plants, given on holidays. Neither she nor I know anything, really, about them, but they are beautiful when in bloom and I've been trying to educate myself over the last week or so.

All three have issues. The two oldest plants have varying degrees of root rot, and I have since re-potted both, although the re-pots were hasty at best and I may attempt to do it again, having learned more about the process, if it will not stress them too much.

The third plant has been in our home since Valentine's day, is still in bloom, but has developed spots on the leaves, yellow leaves, yellowing in the crown, and strange (almost like burns) spots on the flowers.

I do not wish to be just another noob who shows up to beg for help, and have been reading every website I can get my hands on. Still, having done that, I am having trouble diagnosing the problems and symptoms of said plants.

I have taken numerous pictures of each plant, but again, before I spam the forum with a ton of pics and newbie questions, I wanted to make sure I would not be ruffling any feathers by doing so!

I look forward to trying to bring these beautiful plants back to full health and enjoying them for many years to come, with much assistance from seasoned growers and kind souls here.

I will post details of their care thus far and pictures if requested.

Thanks!

[orion141]

I think a few pictures of each plant would be helpful in allowing us to give you some advice. Also, welcome to orchidboard!!

[tucansam]

Thank you!

I will do each as a separate post, largely so I can keep track!

This is the newest one, presently blooming. The leaves are turning leathery and brown and yellow, spots on other leaves, spots on flowers. The spread of whatever this is has been fairly rapid.

[tucansam]

#2. Leaves are droopy and beginning to yellow, has not bloomed or shown any new growth in over a year.

[tucansam]

#3. Also hasn't shown new growth in 6+ months, roots have strange white coating, yellowing of the base.

[tucansam]

The two without flowers have been cared for using the "ice cube" method as per the instructors on the card attached to each plant. Now I know better. Most recently, they have all been cared for with tap water, however after research I will be buying distilled water tomorrow.

I also have a high nitrogen fertilizer, and have been using the quarter-dose method. So far each plant has received one dose.

I believe I have been over-watering the two oldest (the ones not in bloom).

Much more to learn.

[Dollythehun]

Well, welcome. You have a lot to learn and the OB has a lot to teach! Ditch the ice cubes and distilled water may not be necessary, if your water is good. Phals are pretty accommodating.

[MattWoelfsen]

First, I must comment that you have a very healthy assortment of fruit--so you all eat well!

Let's talk about the blue Phal. You probably have learned these are dyed flowers? Some times the dye will cause darker blotches on the flower petals. So that is not a concern. These flowers will eventually die. When the plant blooms again, the flowers will be white.

For the other two older plants. The plant that still has flower spikes...and at one of the leaf base is showing yellow. That leaf will probably die soon. The flower spike next to it is also showing signs of dying. When this leaf falls off, you might consider cutting off the flower spike as close to the base without cutting or scratching healthy plant material.

The second plant looks healthy.

You won't stress these plants by repotting them. I would get smaller potting substrate.

I think these plants will be alright. You showed a picture of the roots of your blue Phal, those are well hydrated roots. As long as you have healthy roots, you have a good healthy plant.

Other things to consider...your plants should grow in warm, fresh, moving air. Most American city water is okay to use to water your plants because there are some healthy chemicals in the water. I fill up water jugs not to the top, allowing space for air exchange and keep the cap off, a day or two before I water my plants. This allows for cholorine and other gases to diminish. In the rainy season, I have rain barrels and water all my orchids with is natural water.

If you haven't read or heard the phrase regarding fertilizer yet: "water weekly, weakly." Is often advised.

[Dollythehun]

Well said, Mattwoelfsen.

[Optimist]

I think I see a bit of "fertilizer burn."