Reasons for Yellowing Leaves on Phalaenopsis Orchids and Solutions

Yellowing leaves on Phalaenopsis orchids can be divided into two situations: one is natural metabolism, where only the old leaves turn yellow while the new leaves remain very healthy, and overall there is no major problem. The second is yellowing leaves caused by improper care, as detailed in the following analysis:

There may be the following three situations, which growers can analyze specifically and improve according to the symptoms.

1. The top of the new growth of the Phalaenopsis orchid shrivels, the young leaves turn pale yellow, and the old leaves also gradually turn dark yellow. The cause is prolonged waterlogging, which leads to a lack of oxygen in the soil and partial root rot. Watering should be controlled and fertilizing stopped.

2. The new leaves of the Phalaenopsis orchid grow thick and glossy, but the leaf surface is uneven, and the old leaves gradually turn yellow and fall off. This situation is caused by excessive fertilizing. Fertilizing should be stopped immediately, watering should be appropriately increased, and some radish or cabbage seeds should be scattered into the pot; after the seedlings sprout, pull them out a few days later to consume the excess fertilizer in the pot. In winter, sowing seeds is not suitable; instead, a few small plants can be transplanted in and then moved out and planted elsewhere.

3. The top and new leaves of the Phalaenopsis orchid are normal, but the lower leaves of the plant dry, turn yellow and fall off first. The cause is that the plant has not been watered thoroughly for a long time, causing the Phalaenopsis orchid to become dehydrated. It should be watered appropriately to keep the potting soil moist from top to bottom.