Yes. Sphagnum moss is a common and popular potting medium for phals, but it
tends to break down quickly [esp. the cheaper grades of it]. It is also
very easy to keep too wet, and very hard to re-wet if it ever does dry out
all the way through [esp. if packed too tightly, which is an easy mistake
for a beginner to make].

We recommend either (1) using coconut husk chips as an alternative potting
medium [be sure to soak first] or (2) mixing medium-size bark or charcoal
with sphagnum; this seems to help prevent over-compaction and will keep the
mix "fresh" a little longer.

When you take the plant out of the old moss, remove as much of it as you can
and take a good look at the roots. If they are still pale in color [white,
tan, beige] but shriveled, then you have not been watering enough. If they
are mostly dark brown or black and mushy, then you have been watering way
too much and they have rotted. Cut off the worst of the mush before you put
the plant into its fresh pot and mix. A rooting stimulant such as
Superthrive or Dynagro K-L-N would probably also be helpful if the plant's
roots are in poor condition.

I don't think this last thing is your problem, but "droopiness" can also be
caused by excess fertilizer. If the leaves are fat and succulent, aside
from being a bit limp, and the roots are thick, firm, and mostly white or a
pale tan, then your watering has been fine, but plant has been over-fed
[possibly by time-release fertilizer in the mix that you weren't aware of].

In any event, we prefer to take it easy on fertilizer immediately after
repotting, until the plant has re-established.



Good growing,

--
Kenni Judd
Juno Beach Orchids

http://www.jborchids.com
"scullycat" wrote in message
...
HI all,
I'm a newbie. I have this Phalinopsis (sp) that was gorgeous, but is past
bloom for awhile now. It was planted in this moss stuff which has gotten
green on top. I want it to re-bloom, obviously, next year. I've been
watering it and keeping it in partial sun. Should I repot it? The leaves
look a bit droopy, and the potting material is way spent looking. Thanks
for
your expert help.
Chris