Why stop the KelpMax? If you want roots to grow and the plant to recover, keep up the regimen.
If the plant has any roots at all, watering is a more effective uptake route. I never mist plants with KelpMax. The soak is only necessary if the plant has no roots, and gives a lot more time for uptake than misting ever would.
The reason I cut out the KelpMax was I figured my plants need at least a little rest in the winter. Do most of you continue with this year round?
Also, I did not give much thought to the word when I wrote "misting". That sounds like I'm spraying it with potpourri or something... To be more specific: mixing it up in a spray bottle and really drenching the roots, not spritzing a light haze on the entire plant
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I would give any orchid with sick roots KelpMax once every 2 weeks no matter the season. In the large bark the most likely problem is roots drying out. Just be sure the medium is never dry for long.
A Paph that doesn't get enough water turns brown in the crown, just like yours did. It isn't rot - it's inadequate watering. The same thing happens with new growths on Bulbophyllums, Cattleyas and Dendrobiums. Fungus and rot are almost never problems in most heated or air-conditioned homes. What looks like rot is a cultural problem.
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