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My Phalaenopsis orchid's leaves have black spots - is it black rot, and will it heal on its own?

Flower Cultivation By Lily Anderson 0 views
Generally speaking, both new and experienced growers of Phalaenopsis orchids may have encountered the "black rot" condition on the leaves, which is mainly caused by bacterial or fungal infection. Looking at the cause, it seems quite serious, but in fact, as long as everyone can promptly spot the small signs of black rot, the whole plant can be saved. Below

Generally speaking, both new and experienced growers of Phalaenopsis orchids may have encountered the  "black rot" condition on the leaves, which is mainly caused by bacterial or fungal infection. Looking at the cause, it seems quite serious, but in fact, as long as everyone can promptly spot the small signs of black rot, the whole plant can be saved. Below is a brief discussion of some insights.

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"Black rot" occurs regardless of season. For example, in winter, because the outdoor weather is cold, most people keep their doors and windows closed, so Phalaenopsis orchids can get black rot due to poor ventilation. In summer, even if ventilation is done very well, the high-temperature environment will still cause black rot. In short, for Phalaenopsis orchids, black rot is like humans catching a cold - it happens very easily. In daily care, everyone should carefully inspect the leaf surface, the underside, and gaps and similar spots. It is best to gently press down on the leaves with your hand. If their condition is soft and mushy, this may be the early stage of black rot. In the later stage, black rot will cause the entire tissue to turn black.
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In addition, besides "black rot" there is also "water rot". Its difference from black rot is that the leaves do not turn black, but instead become soft and transparent. How should similar problems be handled?

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Generally speaking, black rot and water rot mostly occur on the leaves, and they do not occur on the roots. If they do occur, cut them off as soon as possible. When cutting, do not be reluctant and cut only half - the entire black or transparent tissue must be cut away completely. After cutting, you can apply a little carbendazim or cinnamon powder, plant ash, etc., so the wound can absorb it, which can effectively help it recover more easily. Finally, place the treated whole plant back in its original position. In addition, pay attention to scissors that have been used before. Be sure to wipe them clean with alcohol after use and then place them in a dry place, otherwise the pathogens on the scissor tips may accidentally infect other areas the next time you use them.
When watering after the plant is diseased, be careful to avoid splashing water on the part that was previously cut, because while it has not yet recovered, pathogens may still be present, causing them to spread with the water flow and affect other leaves. If the wound really does get splashed with water, handle it promptly and regularly spray a fungicide suitable for orchids to prevent the disease from occurring again.

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