Orchid is one of the most demanding houseplants. Simple mistakes in the care of the flower often lead to disastrous consequences: the leaves begin to turn yellow, the flower stems fall off, and in general the plant can die.

It turns out that yellow leaves are not always a sign of disease. How to save an orchid in this situation, told the publication Porady Interia.

Causes of yellow and dull leaves are most often caused by errors in care. However, experts note: if the orchid has yellow leaves only at the bottom, there are few of them, and in general the flower looks healthy and blooms - most likely, this is a quite natural process. Especially if the plant is old.

Orchid diseases

Wrinkling and yellowing of the young leaves is already a warning sign. If you have not supplied the flowers with enough nutrients (mainly iron and nitrogen), the orchid is probably suffering from chlorosis. In this case, the plant slows down in growth and stops flowering. Fortunately, chlorosis can easily be prevented by watering the orchid with soft water and feeding it with the proper fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Soil pH should be between 4.5 and 6.

Another cause of yellow leaves is fusariasis. This is a serious fungal infestation that causes the leaves to first turn yellow and then gradually turn brown. In this case, fungicides are most effective.

Spraying will also be necessary when brown rot appears, under the influence of which the leaves shrivel up and lose color. In this case, it is also necessary to remove infected and dead leaves of the plant with sterile and clean tools so as not to spread pathogens.

Should you cut off yellow leaves on an orchid?

It is not always advisable to cut off yellow leaves. Specialists say that the reason in most cases is stress. Stress is provoked by transplanting, new conditions, temperature fluctuations, watering changes, etc.

Most often, improper watering leads to yellowing. Too much moisture makes it impossible for the plant to absorb nutrients, and the leaves lose their resilience and brightness. In such a situation, transplant the orchid into new substrate immediately and water it only once a week.

22 °C is the optimal temperature for an orchid. It can also be too hot in the summer, which is another reason for the yellow leaves. Place the orchid in a bright room with a moderate temperature.

Earlier OBOZREVATEL told you how to save a dry orchid in a matter of days.

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