Causes of Soft Leaves in Phalaenopsis Orchids and How to Treat Them

Today I will show you how to effectively solve the problem of Phalaenopsis orchid leaves suddenly going soft during care, so the orchid revives and produces beautiful blooms again. 

1. Soft rot

 Soft rot is a common disease of the Phalaenopsis orchid, and once it strikes it spreads quickly.

Symptoms: small water-soaked spots first appear on the leaves, and within just a few days they expand rapidly, feel soft to the touch, and give off a disgusting foul odor. This is because bacteria are multiplying wildly inside the leaves, causing the tissue to die and rot.

First aid measures: cut off diseased leaves immediately, and disinfect the scissors with alcohol to prevent cross-infection; dilute agricultural streptomycin with water and spray the whole plant evenly, once a week 1time, for 3times in a row; move the orchid to a well-ventilated spot and keep the environment dry to prevent the bacteria from continuing to multiply.

2. Underwatering

The roots of the Phalaenopsis orchid are very sensitive to water.

Signs of underwatering: the bottom leaves turn yellow and wrinkle first, feel soft to the touch, and the whole plant droops listlessly.

Remedies

1. Find a large basin, fill it with clean water, and place the orchid, pot and all, into it so the water slowly seeps in from the bottom; take it out after 15minutes to make sure the roots get their fill of water.

2. In normal times you can use a spray bottle to mist the surrounding area to raise humidity, but do not spray the leaves directly! It is recommended to water 1-2times a week, adjusting the frequency according to the environment.

3. Stick your finger 2cminto the potting medium; if it feels dry, water it. Phalaenopsis orchids like a moist but not waterlogged environment.

3. Root rot

Root rot is the hidden cause of soft leaves in Phalaenopsis orchids, and it is very hard to spot.

How to tell: the bottom 1-2leaves wrinkle and go soft first; when you gently lift the plant it feels very loose, and there may even be a sour, rotten smell from the roots, which means the roots have a problem.

How to save it: take the orchid out of the pot and cut off the flower spike; rinse the roots with clean water, cut off the rotten black parts, and apply carbendazim to the wounds to disinfect them; replace with fresh sphagnum moss or bark potting medium, repot it, and place it in a spot with indirect light to rest, waiting for new roots and leaves to slowly grow out.

Everyday care Tips:

1.Check the condition of the leaves every week, so problems are found and treated early.

2.Phalaenopsis orchids like a 15-28°C environment with 60%-80% humidity, away from air-conditioner vents and radiators.

3.During the growing season, apply orchid fertilizer 1time a month, using weak doses frequently, to avoid burning the roots.

Although Phalaenopsis orchids are delicate, as long as you master the care techniques, you can help them revive.