Help for a black thumb

[moniqued]

I'm notoriously unlucky with orchids, so even though I love them, I spare their lives by not buying them anymore. However, I was given one yesterday as a house warming gift. After just one day, it looks sick. The lower leaves are wilting and the stem is leaning. I see no soil in the pot, only roots. Is that normal? Any suggestions would be appreciated!!
Thanks

[flaorchidfan]

doesn't sound so good but probably would help know ing what kind it is first. some don't need soil but te "leaning orchid of Piza" can't be good. I am sure the folks on here will be able to render some advice. if not sure of the name, a description might help

[mayres]

As andrew suggested post the name on the tag if it has one. If no tag then post a digital photo if you don't know what kind it is or 2nd best would be to do your best giving a description of the plant, media, where you have it, etc.

[moniqued]

You mean orchids aren't all the same? (little joke there)

The tag says it is a Dendrobium Elma White. I have it in the middle of the living room which is bathed in light, but not direct sunlight. (26' ceiling with a wall of windows and no window coverings).

Hopefully this info. will help someone diagnose my poor plant!

Thanks again.

[mayres]

I believe this is actually Emma White - which is a classic - often sold generically throughout the world. I purchased one of these myself a year ago on clearance and have been delighted to see it rebloom twice already. Give it lots of sunlight - but don't dramatically increase it from what it has now all at once - gradually. It will need this to bloom. Lots of options for media - many people plant these in volcanic rock and various blends of materials. I have mine planted in fine bark and it seems to be doing very well. Generally they should be in as small of pot as you can comfortably fit the roots in and transplanted when the roots are growing if/when you decide to do so.

[flaorchidfan]

i put a layer of volcanic rock on the bottom which helps with aeration and weighs down the bottom of the pot since dendrobiums can get a little top heavy and then i use a mix of bark, fir, and a little moss to keep it moist.

[jerrymeola]

If the plant is only leaning, it is probably young or recently repotted. A plant stake is all you need.

Dendrobiums are very easy to grow and this is a good plant for a black thumb. It should do well and give you confidence to try others.

Now all orchids need to be grown in an open airy medium. You need to spend more time on this forum learning the basics. Your plant seems to be potted fine. It can use more light but there is no rush. Gradually move it to an area with as much light as you can give in indoors. Outside they would need some shade, bu tit tolerates a good deal of light and too little light will prevent the plant from flowering.