White Mold on Dendrobium Media

[Clawhammer]

I saw that my new Denrobium Classic Gem (in bloom) was losing a leaf and initially I thought this was normal. However when a couple more began to yellow I inspected the pot and found the media (med/lg size bark) covered in mold. The mold smelled like mushrooms and seemed to be focused on the bark as opposed to the roots. Most of the roots in the middle were rotted suggesting that the media had been waterlogged for a while.

I am currently in the process of repotting, the first time I have done so with a dendro, which I heard could be hard on the plant. I guess my blooms are probably toast.

Any protocol that I should follow for the mold before repotting? Any tips to help prevent reoccurance and help save the plant?

Thanks in advance

[Roberta]

I think just rinse the roots well. Once they're in fresh medium that has a chance to dry out between waterings, and with good air spaces, the mold won't regrow. It was a symptom of the problem, not the cause.

[Clawhammer]

Thanks Roberta, I was hoping that would be the case. I'm on it!