Hello

[DDugdale]

I have two Phalaenopsis Orchids, Isis and Balysa according to the tags. I rescued them from a Home Improvement Store about two years ago. The Isis is thriving and has bloomed three times. The Balysa has bloomed once and doesn't seem to be quite as sturdy as the other. The potting medium seems to be primarily a moss of some type and I'm guessing that the air circulation around the roots is inadequate. The Isis is potted in a bark/moss mix and seems to be very happy. I will be repotting soon and have a bag of Schultz Potting Bark (Western Fir Bark). They mention on the back of the bag about adding charcoal, perlite or peat. Any advice anyone can offer on the subject would be greatly appreciated. Any suggestions on what type of fertilizer to use and how often?

Now that I know I can successfully grow these little beauties, I will definitely be looking for more! Any other varieties of Orchids that are suitable for a novice who has to endure a gas forced air furnace every winter? The climate here in the summer is warm to hot and humid so I don't see that as a big problem, it's the winters that I worry about.

[Ross]

Very pretty flower. Welcome to the board. Just a piece of advice - if you have a heavy hand at watering, go for the more open mix (more air to the roots). Phals can rot off the roots very easily if the medium isn't just right. Some folks here frow Phals in moss successfully but they monitor moisture at the roots. If you are just beginning, you might be better off repotting to the bark mix. I also add coarse agricultural charcoal (not charcoal grill stuff) to my mix. This will help to take away some of the gases, etc and it doesn't hold much water so the mix will be airier. Have fun with the hobby and if you have any questions just ask away.

[DDugdale]

Thank you Ross, I appreciate your input.

D

[Ely]

Nice flowers, I really like how so many are going at once. I don't know much about all the potting mixes, but I used to use a 3-2 fine fir bark to pearlite. It worked well, but I habe recently transplanted to semi hydroponics. Welcome to the OB!

[GreggC]

you will find that there are many nice and knowledgable people here. Enjoy yourself!!