The Orchid Garden

Phalaenopsis, yup, a newbie ;-)

Question:

We recently (4 days) took the plunge and bought a phalaenopsis orchid, our first orchid. It seemed very healthy, but the leaves are turning yellow. The medium is still damp and it is in our porch which is light all day with the venetian blinds turned so that direct sun does not get in. ??

Response:

We recently (4 days) took the plunge and bought a phalaenopsis orchid, our first orchid. It seemed very healthy, but the leaves are turning yellow. The medium is still damp and it is in our porch which is light all day with the venetian blinds turned so that direct sun does not get in.

Leaves turn yellow for two main reasons. 1- the plant is getting too much water or 2- too much light. Since this has happened so fast, I am guessing that the second is the culprit here. Phals like very filtered light. I would suggest an east or- better still- south window that gets no direct sun at all. On the other hand, water could be an issue as well. Where is the yellow forming? If the yellow color is coming from the center of the plant and moving out along the leaves, usually a water or rot issue. If it is forming in patches on the highest point of the leaves, a light issue. I usually let my Phalaenopsis dry out the slightest bit between waterings. Drainage is essential too. A common mistake made by new growers is to allow standing water to accumulate in a tray or watering dish that the pot rests in. Depending on the growing medium and your climate, Phals in large pots (4-6 inches wide) typically need watering every 3-7 days. Keep in mind too that healthy orchids getting enough light usually have a slightly yellow cast to the leaves. Dark green phalaenopsis leaves, while attractive, are usually a sign of too little light (except in cases where you have a dark flowered plant with leaves that are purple on the underside.) So if the yellowing is slight, that could be a good sign if the plant had very dark green leaves when you got it (which is very common if you buy from a grocery store or other indoor shop where the light is insufficient. Stores often do this on purpose to keep the foliage darker and more attractive, and prolong flower life.) If there is any way you can post a picture that would help too. Sorry to be so general and complex, but from this info please post back with more specifics and I am sure someone will have some good advice for you. Take care, Tom.

Response:

Tom, thank you. We moved the plant to a lower level. The yellow was on the side with the most light as was working back from the tip so with any luck. . . I now realize how absurdly simple wine is compared with orchids J Coulter see ya at atw – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

I now realize how absurdly simple wine is compared with orchids J Coulter see ya at atw

Hey! LOL. How’s it going? Nice to know I am not the only orchid/wine geek on Usenet hahahaha Tom.

Response:

Filed under: Phalaenopsis Orchid

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