Many people complain in the comments that Phalaenopsis orchids are really hard to care for, especially when it comes to their leaves. They often show signs of yellowing, wrinkling, or even falling off, which can be very frustrating, as it usually means the flowers are wilting, or the buds are drying up and withering.
If you encounter such problems while caring for your Phalaenopsis orchid, consider whether the issue is related to the care environment. Phalaenopsis orchids are different from other common plants. They originate from tropical rainforests, so they have specific environmental needs. Generally, they prefer warm and humid environments with temperatures between 22°C and 30°C, similar to a warm spring room. If the temperature drops below 15°C, the leaves will “freeze,” and growth will slow down. If the temperature rises above 35°C, they will become “wilted from the heat,” and the leaves will show signs of edge scorching.
In terms of humidity, they prefer an air humidity range of 60% to 80%. If the air is too dry, the leaves will wrinkle. Increasing the humidity around the plant is simple: place a few water-filled trays around the pot, and the moisture will be naturally absorbed by the Phalaenopsis leaves. If your home is particularly dry (like in the North), you can use a humidifier, but make sure not to blow air directly at the plant.
Ventilation is also key to preventing leaf diseases. Phalaenopsis orchids are sensitive to stagnant and humid air. If they are kept in such conditions for too long, the leaves will mold and get sick. Therefore, place the plant near a window or in a well-ventilated corner of your home. On days when the weather is good, open the windows to allow the air to circulate. This will help the leaves breathe fresh air and strengthen the plant’s immunity.
How can you quickly assess the condition of the leaves? Two common issues are: first, if the leaves develop brown spots or small patches, this is likely due to sunburn. Move the plant to a cooler, shaded area and reduce the damage. If the brown patches are large, trim them off with clean scissors. Second, if the leaves appear soft and wrinkled, it’s usually due to a lack of water or root rot. In this case, immediately remove the plant from the pot and check the roots. If the roots are black and slimy, it means they are rotting, and you should replace the soil and repot the plant promptly.
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