I need help with mushy, moldy stem!
 

Hello everyone!

I have been in possession of my phal for almost three years. It has done wonderfully and produces beautiful purple flowers. A few days ago I noticed the bottom leaf was turning yellow. I figured it was no big deal. Today I noticed the whole leaf was yellow. I brushed my hand across it and the leaf broke off. Upon further inspection, the spot on the leaf where it was attached is black and mushy. The stem of the orchid is also mushy and black with some mold. I looked even closer and there are, what I assume to be, tiny red eggs and a couple of tiny white insects. What do I do? My orchid was an anniversary present from my husband so I don't want to lose it!

TIA!

P.S. I tried to add pictures but it said I am denied. So... How do I fix that?

You have to post five times. Before it will allow you to post pictures.

post a few more times and it will let you add photos (5 total posts)

So you can say hello like five times or go to other boards like the welcome board and make a intro. post.

Hello

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Hello1

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Hello2

O and ps I totally just registered what your name is haha.

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Sorry post in between ours. You are up 2 two

Hello3

Your almost there

Helloooooo

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Haha, it's my kids' initials. Kinda. No "o" so I put oh instead :)

Im guessing today was the very first day you noticed the wilting/rot?

Has anything changed at all?

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Omg how cute!

Still wont let me post links :(

Try this very next one

Okay

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http://i.imgur.com/QCXLjdG.jpg

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http://i.imgur.com/GOpcrpp.jpg

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http://i.imgur.com/3SXoNzO.jpg

Im thinking you might have a fungus, or bacteria infection.

What about the bugs? Do you see the red eggs under the black and right above the new root? And how do I tell if its a bacteria or a fungus?

Bugs I will swing with spider mites then.
I am not sure exactly how to kill off a already thriving fungus. I will leave that to the senior experts..
I just know that you will need to cut away all of the dead roots. Then dash with cinnamon along what you cut. It works as a seal to keep out anymore infections.

You will for sure need new potting medium and a new pot, I use terra cotta pots and use a masonry drill bit now to make the holes. The pot will need to be just big enough to fit the plant roots in with a good potting medium. I use better gro for phals. You may get better recommendations. I am sure you will get more help on here everyone is extremely helpful on here.

I use bayer 3 in 1 insect, mite and disease control on mine when I do see a problem arise and it helps with spider mites really well. I battle them every year when I bring all of my tropicals in.

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I will say though is that I do see some healthy looking fresh and oler ariel roots. So there is some good news...

Well, I do have a bag if potting medium. I am afraid to see the roots! It looks like its localized to that spot, but I guess I'll find out.

Hey there is always hope. I have a Cattleya orchid w no roots at this point I am attempting to save we can do this!

We CAN do this! Your plant will pull through too! Thanks for your help!

Not a problem just give it time and love and hopefully the more knowledgeable members will see this thread and be of even better help to you