Help! Many Tiny White Balls in Media of Mini Catt

[realoldbeachbum]

I went on vacation for two weeks and returned to an infestation of very white tiny balls in bark of Mini Purple coerulea Blue Hawaii 4n X self. Also, very very faint webbing on a few pieces of bark (not covering by any means).

The plant has been in my care for 14 months and has progressed nicely, although slowly.

It has been in the same spot under grow lights, temps in mid 80s F and humidity 50-60%. It gets K-Lite every 10 days, and Quantum Total and KelpMax once every 6 weeks or so.

Any ideas? Thank you so very much for your advice!

Album — Postimages

[Ray]

It’s either insect eggs, or more likely, fungi spore bodies.

[Dimples]

Looks like fungi of some kind.

[realoldbeachbum]

So, insect eggs or fungi? How should I proceed? Don't want to lose this orchid.

Thanks!! ROBB

[Dimples]

Most fungi are only interested in decaying material and pose no threat to living things. Unless someone in your home is extremely allergic to mold/fungi or going through chemo or other immune system suppressing treatments, I wouldn’t do anything beyond picking the worst bits off the top and waiting a day or two longer to water for the plants that can tolerate it (just for a little while). Getting a little dryer will help discourage the fungi and slow the breakdown of the bark.

[estación seca]

I agree, don't worry about fungus growing on medium... except that can be a sign the medium is old. Consider repotting at the next appropriate time.

[realoldbeachbum]

Thank you Dimples & ES! I will repot in new media, keep it somewhat dry & wait.