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How Will Heat Affect My Phalaenopsis Orchid? Part 2 Of 2

September 13, 2013

Sun-Burnt-Leaf-2In our previous article, we were discussing the importance of keeping your Phalaenopsis orchid free of heat stress during the summertime months. Here are some more signs to look for when heat has become a problem for your orchid plant.


Yellow Leaves

Phalaenopsis orchids that are heat stressed can easily suffer from yellowing leaves. The yellowing can occur somewhat quickly if the plant was exposed to direct sunlight or slower if the temperature in the living environment is just too high for the orchid. Orchids like humidity so it’s a good idea to make sure your plant is receiving the right amount of moisture. If you want to increase humidity for your orchid, place a tray under the plant with decorative rocks. Then place water in the tray over the rocks. Make sure that the plant is not soaking in the water in the tray or the plant will suffer from root rot. Your Phalaenopsis orchid will enjoy the humidity that is created by the tray, rocks and water.


Warm Leaves

Feel the leaves on your Phalaenopsis orchid plant. If the leaves are warm, this is a sure sign that the plant is suffering from heat stress. When this occurs, the orchid must be moved to a cooler location even if it will be receiving less sunlight.


Sunburn

Just like people, Phalaenopsis orchids can suffer from sunburn. When orchids are sunburnt they can turn red or reddish purple. It is not uncommon for sunburnt orchids to suffer from freckling as well. When orchids suffer from sunburn, blooms will usually drop and spikes will often fail completely.  Exposed roots will also burn and will turn brown and dry out.  In the worst cases, the leaves on a sunburnt Phalaenopsis orchid will become leathery and the entire orchid plant could die.

Download our 10 Simple Steps to Keeping a Healthy Orchid to help ensure your plant to live a longer, healthier life.

            Keeping you Orchid Healthy