TheNaturePlanet

Phalaenopsis leaves are delicate and extremely sensitive to strong light. Once sunburned, they will send out "distress signals" through changes in the leaves. Here are the symptoms of sunburn and first-aid methods for phalaenopsis:

### I. Symptoms of Sunburn
#### 1. Early Stage
Round or oval light yellow patches appear on the leaf surface, similar to "water marks" from scalding, with no obvious change in texture when touched. This indicates that sunlight has damaged the surface cells of the leaves, and chlorophyll begins to decompose. If intervened in time, the damaged area may gradually return to normal.

#### 2. Middle Stage
The center of the yellow patch on the leaf quickly fades to grayish-white, becoming dry and thin in texture, like paper that has lost its moisture; a clear yellow halo forms around the edge, contrasting sharply with the healthy tissue. At this point, the photosynthetic function of the leaves is impaired, and if left untreated, the damage will spread deeper.

#### 3. Late Stage
The edges of the entire patch on the leaf turn black and carbonized, with the center completely dry and brittle, crumbling and falling off at a light touch. In severe cases, large areas of the leaves turn yellow and wither, and even the entire plant stops growing, entering a dangerous state of irreversibility.

### II. First-Aid Methods
1. Immediately move the phalaenopsis to a well-ventilated area with diffused light indoors to avoid secondary sunburn.
2. Use a sharp, disinfected pair of scissors to cut off completely dry leaves 1-2 cm away from the edge of the healthy tissue. Apply plant ash or carbendazim powder to the cut to prevent bacterial infection.
3. After sunburn, the plant's water absorption capacity is weakened. Reduce watering for 3-5 days, keeping the substrate only slightly moist to avoid root rot.
4. Spray the surrounding air with a spray bottle in the morning and evening to maintain 60%-70% humidity, helping the leaves recover.
5. After 2-3 weeks, if the plant shows new roots or shoots, gradually increase exposure to weak light and resume normal care step by step.

### III. Prevention of Sunburn
1. For indoor maintenance, place the plant on an east-facing windowsill, or use sheer curtains or blinds for south-facing windows.
2. Strictly shade the plant when the summer temperature exceeds 30°C. In spring and autumn, allow 4 hours of gentle morning or evening light.
3. Regularly check the condition of the leaves. If early signs of water deficiency such as curling or scorched edges appear, adjust the light and humidity promptly.