Best potting medium for Mini Phal?

[WhiteRabbit]

Originally Posted by Emerald27

I only first read about the skewer method today, and was curious about whether you keep the skewer in the medium all the time, or if you just stick it in and leave it for a couple minutes and check it when you suspect it's time to water? Isn't accidentally stabbing through a root a concern?*

I have the mini phal on a humidity tray, but the air in my house probably is on the dry side right now from the heaters being on all the time. As for roots within the pot, I'll have to check tomorrow. I'll try my hand at posting a picture of it too.*

I leave the skewers in the pot - but others may not. If not left in the pot, give it a good 30 minutes or more after you do place it in the pot before checking for moisture.

To avoid damaging roots - gently twist the skewer into the media, and always put the skewer back in the same spot

[Emerald27]

Ok I just repotted my poor little orchid into a clear pot that I melted a bunch of holes into on the bottom and sides. I think it's a good thing I did it today because the roots looked AWFUL. I was actually shocked at how bad they looked. The skewer method is definitely going to be used from now on, plus the clear pot should make it much easier to monitor. I'm going to try and attach some photos.

Pic 1 is how it looked prior to repotting - top roots dried out and looking concerning. Pic 2 the scary state of the roots. Pic 3 after I trimmed off everything dead and mushy, didn't have many healthy roots left. I sprinkled some cinnamon at the base where I cut the dead roots, let it sit for a few minutes then rinsed it off with rain water. Pic 4 after being repotted. I also soaked the medium for over an hour and rinsed it several times with rain water, then squeezed the extra water out of it before repotting. Hope it recovers!

[No-Pro-mwa]

Well it looks good I'll keep my fingers crossed that it will start putting out new roots.