The particular case of dry yellow leaves and gray roots
The phalaenopsis orchid has the distinction of being a very expressive plant. When she is bad, we see it immediately and she has several ways of showing it to us. The case of dry, yellowish leaves with gray roots is particular, because it very clearly indicates a lack of water. In this case, you must act quickly by submerging the pot in a container of water for 45 minutes. Then, let the pot drain out of the sink and simply return the plant to its place. In the future do not forget to water it, because although its leaves are thick, the orchid is not a succulent plant and needs a supply of water without excess, but enough!
If the leaves of your dying orchid have white spots…
sunburned orchid as shown by the white spot on the leaf.
The orchid likes bright places, but does not tolerate direct sun. So if you have white spots, it’s actually a sign of sunburn! To protect it from the sun’s rays and excess light, cover your windows with curtains for much of the year. In winter, however, you can move it closer to the windows so it can benefit from full sun. Then it will be less likely to burn. (However, this doesn’t exempt you from monitoring it carefully to be safe!)
A dying orchid that no longer has leaves…
Among the withered flowers and lost leaves, your orchid has lost its splendor. But then who should we blame? It is essential to ask yourself the question and identify what part of your good care was not done correctly. Heat stroke, excess water, diseases, presence of parasites or harmful insects, etc.
When some leaves remain, but no flowers, this may indicate that the plant is exhausted and would benefit from some fertilizer. On the other hand, the total absence of leaves is a more difficult situation, but as they say: “as long as there is life, there is hope”! So, if the roots seem to be in good condition, continue watering and perhaps your plant will slowly take off again over the next few weeks…
Little white creatures on a damaged orchid
Continued on the next page
