Phalaenopsis with black roots, yellowing stem-help!

[LuvPhals]

It takes them a little while too to settle into their new medium. After it has had a chance to dry out around the crown and you see some progress you can always add a little more bark mix to cover some of the roots. But not to high around the crown. You are off to a great start!

[JessieC]

Okay, thanks!

[JessieC]

Well, when I was cutting the air holes I noticed that the bottom half of several roots has rotted, especially on the side of the plant that is shaded by the leaves and not facing the window. I do still have one flower that did't drop, but I'm worried I'm running out of good roots! Not sure there is much I can do though. Strangely, my bamboo stick is pretty dry--I moved it to the side with the rotting roots, so we'll see if it's any different there before I water again.

[LuvPhals]

It really needs to dry out - no more water for a while. On my overwatered rescues I have gone almost 2 weeks withholding water. Once it really gets to dry itself out then you can start a regular watering schedule. If you keep watering right now you add to the problem. Seriously let it dry out. You can mist very finely under the leaves. The underside of the leaves can absorb some of the misting.

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[JessieC]

It had gone about 12 days, but I will let it go longer. Strangely, I put my test stick on the side where the rotting roots were, and by the end of the day (even though it was dry on the good roots side) it was pretty wet again! I'll be keeping it there now.

[RosieC]

It could be that the shade on one side is causing it to dry slower... or rather the sun on the other side is causing it to dry quicker. I think you want to keep an eye on that shaded side to measure watering.

[LuvPhals]

You may loose some of those damaged roots as the plant heals but you will get new roots growing too that you won't see! When you are unsure of watering then the rule of thumb is to hold off yet another day. Since the spike is almost done then turning the plant so that all sides get some even sun won't hurt it.

[JessieC]

Well, the rotten roots are almost dried out and it's been nearly two weeks since I watered. Leaves starting to look a bit droopy. How long is too long before watering again?

[cbuchman]

If the medium is dry - time to water. Just wait for it to be almost dry before watering then next time. Phals don't like to completely dry out.

[LuvPhals]

Yes water now! Remember run the water through and make sure it drains out thoroughly. Do not get water on the crown of the plant. With all the extra holes you cut in the pot it should drain nicely now. Watch the side that is shadowed by the leaves so it dries evenly. Then watch your bamboo stick again and the medium all the way around the pot.