Help with stem rot
 

Hi guys, this is my first time looking after an orchid so please help me out! This is my first orchid and it had stem rot and I'm not sure if it's getting better or I should do something quick to fix it before it gets any worse. I applied cinnamon to the infected area and the lowest most leaf seemed alright but then the second leave inside is starting to wilt. Should I do something before the rot spreads further? What do you think?

Leo - if you post 5 times or so, then the orchidboard server software will then allow you to do regular things (such as to upload photos).

So post about four times more - and you should be able to upload photos for showing the plant, and the rotting region.

Anyway - to cut down on chances of stem rot, my own approach is :

1) provide a growing area with very gentle air-movement.

2) keep stem and leaves dry (even though we know that orchids do indeed get rained on etc - and some of my orchids get lawn sprinkler water dumping water on them every night - leaves, stem, and all).

3) prevent 'regular' roots from being wet or overly wet for relatively long periods of time - even though we know that some orchid roots do/can adapt to wet conditions.

4) maintain suitable growing temperature and temperature range (and lighting levels).

Satisfying #3 above could involve considerations of pot type (eg. size and number of drainage holes), potting media type (size of media and what the media is), and watering technique.

And - one popular item I think - among orchid growers in Australia, is yates anti-rot phosacid. That is a good one to have in the kit, among other items like copper sprays, thiomyl (clearly's 3336), and mancozeb.

But - in any case, some pics to show the orchid's condition will help with assessment. Also - if there's uncertainty about the state of the roots and media, then unpot to check on the roots too - just in case.

Thanks Southpark. I will keep the tips you have kindly given in mind.
I will get the photo uploaded as soon as I can

You're most welcome Leo.

It's hard to advise without photos.