Unfortunately, the vast majority of orchids sold in the big-box stores will be Phalaenopsis. For me at least, Phal. are more difficult to grow than the entire spectrum of Cattleya alliance orchids. To make matters worse, the way the vast majority of Phal. are packaged for sale makes them very prone to "drowning". When I lecture to garden clubs, one question is always asked: "Why do my Phal. plants always die after blooming?" I explain that the plants were probably sold in a poorly draining pot (if drainage at all!) and that the roots were more than likely packed with wet sphagnum moss. Unless one is awfully careful and somewhat knowledgeable about the use of sphagnum, this moss is a sure killer for the majority of orchids.
