New Chid Addict
 

:hello I just got my very first orchid about 2 weeks ago, and am already up to seven! All but one are rescues from big box store. I inherited a green thumb from my mother, and am ready to try it out on these beautiful babies of mine!

Hello and welcome!!!!

Hello and welcome, what kind of orchid do you have?
Joann

Five Phals, and two mini phals. Currently weighing the pros and cons of replanting one that is currently blooming... Bought all of them from Lowe's, and they are suffocating in sphagnum (sp?)!
Repotting? Not sure of correct terminology...

Yes, repotting is correct. Phals are more forgiving of when you repot them. It's just human mechanical error (aka, breaking the flower stalks accidentally) that you need to watch out for. However, if you repot you need to be aware that if you repot in bark or something less water retentive the. You may need to water a bit more frequently until they are accustomed to the new medium.

Thank you! I have some Better-Gro Special Orchid mix. Should I soak it before re-potting the phal?

:hello and welcome!

YES it needs to be soaked otherwise it will not hold water and will dry too quickly.
Joann

I've seen some talk about mixing some sphag in with the bark medium to help with water retention. Is this a good idea? I can see how it could be helpful, but am so leery after seeing how tight it was packed in these...

:welcomeflowers: Glad you found us!