Joanna,

Sphag-n-bag is really intended to be a root-reconstruction environment. The
moist sphagnum being an airy medium and moisture supply, and the sealed
plastic bag being a way to trap 100% RH around the plant so it will not
desiccate while waiting for new roots.

The "bag" part can be helpful for getting recently transplanted plants
quickly acclimated to their new pots, as well. Just slip a bag over the
plant and affix the open end around the pot with a rubber band.

--

Ray Barkalow - First Rays Orchids - www.firstrays.com
Plants, Supplies, Books, Artwork, and Lots of Free Info!
..
"J Fortuna" wrote in message
news:Jh%bd.320$7d7.213@trnddc04...
Ok, so how does one go about the spag'n'bag method of orchid rescue? When
does one do it? And what is it likely to accomplish?

I've got this one Phal that may not survive. I have been telling it that
we've got a record to uphold, since no orchid has died in my household
yet,
but I'm beginning to worry that this orchid is deaf or stubborn or
suicidal.
In early July it started growing one new leaf, but the leaf was always
very
dark, and it stopped growing and remained small. It lost several leaves
earlier this year. I repotted it in August. When it started loosing
another
leaf I cut off the yellow part and the other half survived for a while,
but
now it's loosing that too, and after this it will just have one large leaf
of dubious health and the small dark not-quite new leaf. It used to have
healthy roots, but now most of the roots look dried out (at least the ones
close to the surface), however it does have a few tiny new roots that look
alive. All together, it's kind of sad looking. I don't think it has any
pests, and the plants right next to it have been very healthy.

Should I try this sphag'n'bag method? Or is there something else that I
could try? I might post a picture of this plant to abpo, if my camera will
cooperate.

Joanna