A new forum goer has appeared!

[moongirlz]

So, it's been a while since I've communicated with complete strangers over the internet. Thus, this is all a bit of a new experience.

Im what I like to call an orchid newbie. Just got into the hobby this past summer without knowing anything to begin with. Orchids first caught my eye when my grandmother got one a few years ago.
And then I got one when I found miniature phalaenopsis orchids at a local greenhouse. I currently have 4 miniature phals, 2 dendrobium orchids, and one large phal, and still no real idea how to care for them.

Ive killed off two large phals previously, and this is the reason I am here now.
My miniature phalaenopsis have been doing surprisngly well(Ive had these a few months) and the dendrobiums havent had any troubles yet(I got these nearly two weeks ago).

My current issue, and the reason Ive gotten over some anxiety to join this forum, is my large phal, which Ive had for nearly 2 weeks as well. It was an unexpected gift.
I went to water it this morning, only to find that there was still water in the pot(after a week), and mold growing on the bark and some of the roots. Now, this orchid is in full bloom, with two stems. I want to save the plant, so if i lose the flowers, at least I'll have the plant.
I live in the Chicago area, if that'll help get any sort of idea about the environment. If anyone has any thoughts on how to save this phal, any answers here would be greatly appreciated!!

My current plans are to go to the local greenhouse and to ask around there, and perhaps get a new medium and repot. Any insight on potting medium for a Phalaenopsis would be helpful as well.



Wow what a long winded first post! I hope that doesn't throw anyone off. I look forward to learning from everyone here!!