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drooping leaves


Question
Hello,
My phalaenopsis leaves have drooped and are wrinkled. I recently repotted it in a well drained pot with moss. I will admit that I neglected this plant by not watering it enough, but I am trying to bring it back and am watering it when the moss seems to be almost, but not completely dry. Is there any hope?  

Answer
Shannon, it sounds like your plant has root rot.  Prior to repotting, you may have noticed some orchid roots that are mushy and/or stringy.  These are dead, should have been removed, and are the cause of the symptoms you are experiencing.  Healthy roots are firm and turn green when wet.  The more healthy roots you have, the better the chances for recovery.  It is extremely difficult to grow phalaenopsis in moss as the moss compacts over time holding more water and restricting the flow of air to the roots.  See if you can find a standard orchid potting mix to use in replacing the moss.  A standard mix will contain fir bark, tree fern fiber, perlite, and other ingredients designed to increase air flow to the roots and prevent the mix from staying wet.  Wet the standard orchid potting mix prior to use as fir bark repels water and needs to be soaked to reduce this repellancy. Use a plastic pot with lots of drainage holes in the bottom to promote drainage. Water thoroughly once per week in this new mix.  The droopy/wrinkled leaves likely will turn yellow and fall from the plant. Your goal will be to promote healthy new root and leaf growth.

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