Answering Common Questions About Orchid Care
What should someone do if your plant's leaves turn yellow or brown?
If your leaves are turning yellow or brown your plant is indicating that your plant has an issue. Yellow spots on leaves can indicate something major like a viral infection or something as simple as that your plant is malnourished and needs some fertilizer. If you have an entire leaf that has turned yellow most likely this is a fungal infection. If you see fungal spores at the base of the leaf closest to the plant, you know you have a fungal issue. Before tearing off any leaves it would be best to treat your plant with the appropriate fungicide before cutting off the leaf once it has turned brown. Browning of plant leaves can be natural. Once a leaf is old enough and no longer productive to the plant the entire leaf will brown and can be cut off the plant. If your leaf tips are turning brown this is an indication that the plant is not getting enough moisture from the air. The humidity is too low, misting the plants will help increase humidity. Brown spots on leaves can be leaf burn. This happens when the plant is receiving too much direct sunlight. Move the plant to a more shaded area out of the sun.
When should you move a plant into a bigger pot? How do you know when it’s time?
Majority of orchids have been bred to grow in one particular size pot. The only time you would want to repot your orchid if the plant has become pot pound. The roots will be growing out of the pot and when you water the plant you notice that the pot is not retaining any moisture and all the water passes through the pot. This is the indication that it is time to repot.
What bugs/flies/pests should you look out for if you’re a plantowner?
Particularly for most orchids you want to keep an eye out for Mealy Bug, Thrips and Moss mite.
Should you change your plants' soil? If yes, when/why?
The bark used for orchid growing does eventually break down overtime and will need replacement. This could take several years depending on the plant and how fast it is growing. Same procedure as moving plants into a bigger pot. If you can no longer see the bark in the pot and roots are growing out of the pot go ahead and transplant into a bigger pot with some fresh orchid potting mix.
Should you dust your plant? If so, how often?
Yes you should dust your plants. The leaves are taking in energy for the plant and a dusty leaf will reduce the plants ability to take in its energy. How often you should dust depends on the environment that the plant is in. I recommend using a damp cloth or microfiber towel.
