Leaves
Changes to leaves can signal a problem.
New orchid leaves that turn black or yellow may be a sign of trouble. Yellowing of old leaves is normal, but on new leaves it can indicate stress, insufficient feeding, too much water, or too much direct mid-day light. Yellowing of just the bottom two leaves is a normal part of the growth cycle. You can let them fall off or cut them off with a pair of sterile scissors. And you’ll probably see new growth soon at the top of the leaves.
If all of the leaves turn yellow and fall off, your plant is dying. Black areas on leaves may be from sunburn, or, if they grow in size, fungal disease. Black tips can be caused by hard water, fungal disease or overfeeding. Cut the affected leaves off with sharp, sterile scissors and make adjustments to light or feeding, or, if you suspect disease, try treating with a fungicide.
New orchid leaves that turn black or yellow may be a sign of trouble. Yellowing of old leaves is normal, but on new leaves it can indicate stress, insufficient feeding, too much water, or too much direct mid-day light. Yellowing of just the bottom two leaves is a normal part of the growth cycle. You can let them fall off or cut them off with a pair of sterile scissors. And you’ll probably see new growth soon at the top of the leaves.
If all of the leaves turn yellow and fall off, your plant is dying. Black areas on leaves may be from sunburn, or, if they grow in size, fungal disease. Black tips can be caused by hard water, fungal disease or overfeeding. Cut the affected leaves off with sharp, sterile scissors and make adjustments to light or feeding, or, if you suspect disease, try treating with a fungicide.
Healthy leaves are green and free of yellow or black tips.
