Phalaenopsis Crown Rot, Mealybugs, and Root Rot: Multi-Problem Rescue

New Plant, Multiple Crises

Mail-order Phal: 2 large leaves fell off (green but detached), white mold in mix, most roots mushy, crown rot visible, mealybugs at leaf bases, buds wilting.

You Did Well: Emergency Repotting

• Cut mushy roots, new clay pot, soaked bark.
• Alcohol on mealybugs (Q-tip method).
• Stopped watering.

Refined Recovery Plan

1. Water by soaking: Pot in pan with 4" lukewarm water 1 hour, drain 1 hour, weekly. Keeps crown dry.
2. Crown rot: Self-limiting if kept dry. If spreads, pour little Listerine in crown early day.
3. Dry leaves fast: Fan after any wetting.
4. Mealybug vigilance: Weekly Q-tip alcohol checks.
5. Isolate from replacement plant 1+ month after mealybugs gone.

Prognosis

Enough healthy leaves for recovery. Old spike will likely die—cut it off. Focus on root regrowth.

Chelsey, you've done the hard part. Consistency now saves this plant.