Trying to rescue a sick orchid

[AEKass]

Hoping to get some advice on this sick orchid I'm trying to rescue. A neighbor was going to throw it out, and I took it to try and rescue it. When I got the orchid it was planted in moss, and the condition of the roots and potting material indicated it may have never been watered.

I separated the plant from the old potting material, cut off dead roots, gave it a soak in water, and then re-potted it in the same material I have three other orchids potted in. Since repotting the condition of the leaves has declined--all leaves are rather limp, a bit wrinkled, and a paler green than my healthy orchids. The roots that are visible, however, appear to be healthy. Attached are two photos of the orchid.

The orchid is in a south-east facing window (in Chicago), and I have a humidifier to keep the humidity up. I have also been watering the orchid on the same schedule as my other orchids. My other orchids are doing well, and two have new spikes.

I'd appreciate any advice on how best to care for the rescued orchid--should I be doing anything different? Is it fine given the condition of the roots?

[MrHappyRotter]

It's dehydrated. Usually this means one or more of the following is true: your humidity isn't high enough, the roots are in bad shape or were stressed by repotting, or you need to water more.

Probably wouldn't hurt to keep it a tad warmer assuming your indoor temps are fairly typical. Giving it some seaweed extract or other root stimulants could also help, as would adding some artificial lighting for a few hours in the evening to extend the daylight period a bit since days are so short right now.

Your conditions and care routine are obviously fine for healthy plants, but sick, stressed, and/or repotted plants can sometimes be a little more demanding while they recover.

[Roberta]

Those roots look quite good. The mix is very chunky, so it will dry out quickly (hard to over water) I suspect that it needs more frequent watering. - with those nice roots, it can utilize water just fine) The lower leaves may not perk up, but it looks like it is adding new ones, which is great. Just kick up the watering and it should continue to improve.

[aliceinwl]

I'm not sure how you're watering, but you could also try watering by soaking if you're not already. Put the pot in a solid container and fill with water until it reaches the level of the substrate and let soak for 5-10 minutes. This will help the bark absorb and retain more moisture. New bark seems to dry especially quickly.

[AEKass]

Thanks all for the replies I've ordered Kelp Max to help and will start watering it more frequently.

[estación seca]

As above. The roots look fine. It can take weeks to rehydrate fully, and sometimes wrinkles don't disappear completely.

[AEKass]

Thanks again everyone, after a few waterings several leaves have perked up!

[seagull]

i had this happen to a phal once. i simply wrapped it in moist sphagnum for a few weeks. it perked up and then i put it in more proper media and watered regularly