Bring phal back to life

[jczam]

Hi everyone, its my first post!

I got a phal a few weeks ago(more like I just picked up a stray - it was literally left on my doorstep), at least I think its a phal, that was in very tough shape. I had to basically prune all its roots off (there is only 1 1/2 left), repot it (I used grow stones and a 5in net pot- I am still pretty new at orchid growing) and after about a month of feeding it every so often with a rooting nutrient (not orchid specific) and keeping it in a semi-semi-hydroponics and new leaf is emerging! Now I think its a good sign, any reason not to see this as a good sign?

Thanks!

[jsehorn]

yes, that is a Phal, and yes that is a good sign. My only suggestion would be to cover the rocks with a layer of sphagnum moss. The surface of the rocks probably dries pretty quick, and if there is moisture around the base of the plant, it will encourage new root growth.

And, welcome to the forum!

[jczam]

Great suggestion...the rocks do dry out and there is a root piece near the surface that I would love to get new growth out of.

Thanks for the welcome! You all are pretty awesome!

[jsehorn]

Well thanks! If most of the roots are rotten, keep the plant on the dry side at the roots, and keep the humidity high at the leaves. The layer of moss will help both increase humidity around the plant, and it will keep the base of the plant a little moist, which will encourage new root growth.

I'm not the Phal expert around here, so maybe somebody else will chime in with more tips.

Good luck! Be sure to keep us updated!

[cowgirl]

In my opinion if there are only 1 1/2 roots left I would have it in the smallest pot you can, so that there is minimum amount of medium and can be kept slightly drier . If it is already stressed I wouldn't have in semi hydroponics the roots might be too wet, it might just stress it out all the more.

[jczam]

While I have it in a 5 in netpot, I have a smaller 2in netpot upside down inside supporting it. I read about that techniques somewhere (probably here).

I really hope I'm not stressing it out more but it is producing another blade so I don't want to give up hope...yet

[jsehorn]

While plants are recovering, they prefer less light and less water and slightly higher temperatures and humidity than their healthy brethren. Decide where the best spot is for it, and leave it there. Plants don't like to be moved around a lot, especially if they are stressed. Also, hold off on fertilizer until you see significant root growth.