FDK After Dark SVO Black Pearl: Problematic Purchase

[Aedrich]

Hello Everyone!
I would like to thank the administrators for accepting me to our group. The reason why I have joined our group is because I have recently purchased an FDK After Dark SVO Black Pearl form an online Orchid Nursery.

I recieved it last December 18 and after researching online about the plant and how to care for it. It seems like I didn't get a very nice deal out of it. It was 60€ plus shipping and what I got was a bit of a let down.

1st, there are three pseudobulbs in total. 1 parent pseudobulb and 2 more new pseudobulb from this year's growth cycle. One of the two new bulbs, is bigger than the other one while the newest one is smaller in size. This is a bit of warning sign, as it says on my research that stressed plants tend to create smaller structures than the previous one.

2nd, it appears that this plant had a spider mite infestation. Based on the leaves there are signs of it. Not only that... it seems like slugs have also eaten parts of its leaves.
(For now there are no apparent active infestation. I did the cotton swab test 2x now and there are not brown or red discolouration on it. No webs as well so I guess it is all under control. As for the slugs, I havent seen any mucus track so I guess it is safe to assume that they arent around as well.)

3rd, It is already January and the plant hasn't yet entered full dormancy. I am concern about the next growth cycle this spring.

With all these considered, what course of action would you recommend. I wouldnt like to loose it. It is actually a christmas gift from my husband.

Here are some questions I would like to ask:

1. Should I force the dormancy period? Should I completely stop watering even if the other pseudobulb is still completely green?

2. Is it a good idea to completely change the potting media to avoid any further infestation in spring? Can I do this just after my plant reach full dormancy? Or should I wait for spring since I might need the roots in winter if my bulbs suffer from dehydration?

3. Will my plant suffer "set-back"? I am a bit realistic about my plant's condition now and a flower spike might not be due this cycle.... in fact I would rather not have a flower this cycle and just reserve all that energy for growth in spring.

So far I have followed what I have read and I have "reduced" the amount of water it gets. I use reverse osmosis water and offer 1/4cup every two weeks.