Why Are Orchid Leaves Turning Yellow and Withered? Cause Analysis and Solutions
There are many reasons why orchid leaves dry up and wither. If the soil is unsuitable, repot with a fresh mix of fine sand and humus soil. If there is too little water, water promptly, and once growth recovers, follow the watering principle of eight parts dry and two parts moist. If the light is too strong, move the orchid to a semi-shaded environment, and take good preventive measures against diseases.
1. Unsuitable soil
During the growth of an orchid, it is best to repot once every 2 to 3 years. If the soil used has poor drainage or has deteriorated, it can easily cause yellow leaves on the plant. In this case, replace the soil and use a fresh mix of fine sand and humus soil. Sterilize the soil before repotting.
2. Too little water. Orchids grow better in environments with higher humidity. So, if the soil lacks water or is watered too little, root growth will stall and the leaves will turn yellow and wither. It is best to water promptly and place the plant in a ventilated environment. Once the leaves recover their growth, simply follow the watering principle of eight parts dry and two parts moist.
3. Too much light
Orchids are semi-shade plants. If the pot is kept in direct sun for a long time, the leaves will easily turn yellow and dry up, and many will drop off and die. It is best to move the orchid to a semi-shaded environment for care. If it is kept outdoors, provide appropriate shading.
4. Too much fertilizer. When fertilizing orchids, do not apply too much or too little; it is best to follow the principle of small amounts applied frequently. If you fertilize too often, the roots will rot and the leaves will turn yellow and wither. In this case, stop fertilizing promptly. In daily care during the peak growing season, apply a fermented liquid fertilizer solution once every two weeks, then water.
5. Disease prevention
The most common diseases of orchids are leaf spot and brown spot, which mainly attack the leaves in the form of fungi and slowly cause the leaves to turn yellow and wither. The affected parts must be destroyed promptly. First sterilize the soil with a carbendazim solution, then spray an omethoate solution for control.