To grow healthy Phalaenopsis orchids, you must first care for the roots, but it’s just as important to observe the condition of the leaves. Recently, a reader asked why the new leaves on their orchid were getting smaller and smaller. Based on the question and photos provided, here are six common reasons:
1. Insufficient light
This is the most common cause. In summer, the angle of sunlight shifts, or the plant may simply be placed in a low-light area. Without enough light, photosynthesis weakens, fewer nutrients are produced, and new leaves remain small, thin, and weak.
2. Excessive light
On the other hand, too much light can also stunt growth. Newly purchased orchids are especially sensitive. In strong light, new leaves may grow thick, hard, and short as a form of self-protection—this is simply the plant adjusting to its new environment.
3. Lack of water
During the leaf-growing stage, Phalaenopsis orchids require ample water. If watering is insufficient, nutrient absorption and transport are impaired, leading to undersized leaves.
4. Root problems
Roots are like the orchid’s “mouth.” If they rot, collapse, or die off, the plant cannot take up nutrients from the medium and must rely only on what’s stored in its stem. This limited supply isn’t enough for large new leaves. Once roots recover, new leaves will quickly grow larger again.
5. Nutrient competition during flowering
Blooming consumes a great deal of energy. If the orchid is flowering while also producing new leaves, nutrients are prioritized for the flowers, leaving less for the foliage. As a result, leaves may grow smaller than normal.
6. Temperature stress
Leaf growth can also be affected by seasonal changes. During autumn and winter, lower temperatures slow or halt growth. A leaf that begins to grow just as temperatures drop may remain undersized until warmer conditions allow growth to resume.
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