white mold on roots and moss of 2 mini Phalaenopsis and a Neofinetia

[WhiteRabbit]

I use bamboo kabob skewers to determine when to water. Search "skewer" and "skewer method" on the board,. You can also Google "skewer method" "skewer method orchids".

A freshly sharpened pencil also works. Gently twist the pencil about halfway down into the media (as near to midway between center and edge of pot as you can, closer to center is best. Let it sit there a few minutes, then remove. The newly exposed wood will darken from any moisture that may be in the media.

I like to put a small overturned net pot in the center bottom of pots, or tuck some styrofoam into the root mass to help media dry more evenly, and it creates a nice air pocket for roots.

If you find the sphag is staying too wet, or roots have rotted, potting into a bark mix may be helpful.