I will do that on the Phal that I’m trying to save for Mom. Now that you mention it, it IS really packed in there with moss; looks like it was a HUGE orchid at one point in time.
Time to see what’s going on in there! The roots along the outside are green and healthy, which made me believe it was worth saving.
This will be quite the accomplishment if I can pull it off! :)
It is so easy especially cut off any dead roots. Orchids are extremely tough plants, just cut off the yuckis and flush vigorously at the sink. If there is a bunch of black mold at the crown, use a soft toothbrush. And put in a new pot or clean and scalded one. The crown is the most important part to save.