Orchids are tough! I've had my share of disappoints with them. Or a lot of times, they survive, but never bloom again. I know I'm supposed to feed them, but since I usually tie mine to my tree, not sure how much food actually sticks. On old wives tale in hawaii is to water them with the rice washing water! I like how you found dried leaves/twigs/tangles to accentuate your disappointment.
keep trying! I do know they like water, but not "wet feet." Good drainage is critical.
