Don't fool with the roots now. See if you can increase air circulation and don't cut off too many leaves. Try treating the spots as you have been. You could try a fungicide, but if there's only a few spots continue as you have. Sounds fungal. Are they outside? Provide some more info regarding your growing conditions.

Jane

Sometimes I've managed to stop a black spot in its tracks by rubbing cinnamon into it on both the top and bottom of the leaf. Check it daily to make sure it works. You can back it up with cutting more if you need to. msflintlock

i had the orchid hanging in the oak tree in backyard, mostly indirect lite, good air circulation. i have since put in on the front porch w/indirect lite to isolate the plant. all the rest of the orchids (not cattleya) are doing fine. as of today, i have seen no more black spots so i may have jumped right on the prob as it came out. if i get more spots, i will try the cinnamon. i cut three leaves and have cut a "partial" leaf. thank you for the help. i truly don't think i have overwatered.

Like Msflintock, cinnamon has always worked wonders for me for minor leaf problems of all sorts. It's a good contact anti-bacterial and anti-fungal (and it smells good :)

You were right to cut out the spots. Spare as much leaf as you can while still getting all the rot.

I don't know if alcohol actually is a good remedy for rots. I've never seen it suggested for that.

If the rot is bacterial it moves very fast, so you need to act quickly if you see more spots.

Rots are "opportunistic"-- the bacteria or fungi that cause them are always around, and if conditions are right, they will multiply quickly into a problem. So changing conditions is usually a good idea in addition to removing the rot.

thank you! I will continue to check the plant daily to make sure no more spots appear. Whew! I was so worried about this plant!
jane NY, i assume since i have new growth there isn't a need to check the roots....I know you told me not to bother w/them right now. Is that why...since I have growth?

Vicki, I don't know where or what zone you are in. My guess (Oak tree) is somewhere in the south. Since I'm up North, can't be too helpful except my nephew grows orchids in Fla. and sometimes hanging plants under trees increases humidity and cuts air flow. The addition of shady soil beneath can increase the chance of fungus during hot weather.

The only reason to check roots of a plant is if its falling out of the pot because it lost its roots. If its making new growth, its doing well and orchids don't like their roots disturbed. You want to hope the new growth produces flowers this winter.

Jane