Newbie with Cattleya Problems

[peachick]

~Hello~

I am glad to be part of the orchid board. Being a new member I am not really sure where to begin, but I am for the most part a novice when it comes to growing orchids with the exception of phals. Which I have had several for about 10 years.

I just recently within the last 6 months or so bought a few cattleyas which I am really concerned about. One appears to be healthy, the other is not doing well. The one which I am worried about the roots are getting dark and hard. A few leaves are turning dark brown.

I water both every 4 to 5 days. We have well water. Have good air movement, humidity of around 60-65%. Temps around 72-80. Home enviroment, bright east window.
I have used Dyna-Grow 3-12-6, every third watering.

I believe both need repotting and I am not sure where to start with that.
Such as what type of potting medium and how to repot them.

I guess I am going in the right direction by joining the forum, reading, and asking questions.

If anyone can give me some pointers on where to start with repotting the cattleyas I would be most grateful. And what I might do to save the one which is not healthy.

I took a few photos and will try to post them. The old saying, "a picture is worth a thousand words" usually is true when trying to describe this sort of problem.

The second photo is the one with the roots that are drying and getting dark.

I appreciate any help or suggestions.

peachick