Question
Jim -

I have an orchid that has a funny mold growing around the bark and roots.  It is yellow and has styrofoam like balls throughout it.  Do you have any idea of what kind of mold or fungi this might be?  Also, if you do, do you know how I could treat it?

Thank you,
Sarah

Answer
Hello Sarah,

I have to admit that your question has me stumped a little.  But I'll give it a try from things I've seen and read about.  

The mold around the roots and bark may or may not be a problem, I'd need a little more information to make a guess.  I've seen something like your styrofoam balls in orchid mixes, they probably are slug or snail eggs.  For both problems, my suggestion would be to repot your orchid into fresh orchid potting medium, even using a new pot due to the possible mold.  Be sure to remove as much of the old potting medium from the roots before repotting.  

Lastly, there may be a very remote possibility that what you have are nematodes (eel worms).  I hope they aren't.  Nematodes may attack the roots, leaves or flower buds and once established are very difficult to get rid of from a plant.  Unfortunately there is no remedy for nematodes that I know of.  

Sorry I couldn't be of more help but hope this helps a little.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.