Troubleshooting your orchid: The mystery of yellowing leaves
Orchids, despite being commonly considered easy to cultivate, can present challenges. Yellowing leaves are among the most common issues. Discover what could be causing this and how to prevent it.
Why does an orchid have yellow leaves?
Orchids are beautiful plants that can captivate with their beauty. However, they can also present problems, especially when the leaves start to yellow. Overwatering is one of the main culprits in this issue. Orchids require a specific amount of water—too much can lead to root rot, which ultimately affects the condition of the leaves. It is crucial to adjust watering according to the season and the plant's location.
This may also result from using inappropriate soil. Orchids thrive in permeable soil, which allows for adequate airflow around the roots. Soil that is too dense retains water and promotes rotting. Therefore, it is advisable to use special orchid soil, often containing a mix of bark, perlite, and charcoal.
Orchids prosper in bright locations, but too much sunlight can lead to leaf burn. It is recommended to place them where there is plenty of diffused light, such as on window sills with eastern or northern exposure. If the plant is in a location that's too dark, the orchid's leaves may begin to yellow and break.
Yellowing leaves can also indicate mistakes in fertilising the plant. Discolouration of the leaves may signal a deficiency of nutrients such as nitrogen or iron. To prevent deficiencies, it is best to fertilise orchids regularly from April to September.
However, discoloured orchid leaves do not always indicate disease or care errors. Orchid leaves can also yellow due to the natural aging process. In this case, they should be gently removed.
How to prevent orchid leaves from yellowing?
To avoid issues with yellowing leaves, begin by choosing the right pot and soil. Orchid pots should have drainage holes to ensure effective water removal.
Also, pay attention to your watering technique. Ideally, orchids should be watered once a week, and during the winter season, when the plant is resting, even less frequently. It's important to monitor the moisture level of the soil and water the plants when it is dry to a depth of about 2.5 cm. The water should be soft, preferably filtered or distilled, and it's beneficial to submerge the pot in it for 15 minutes to thoroughly hydrate the roots. Avoid overwatering the orchid, as it can lead to root rot.
Ensure the plant receives the right light and fertilise systematically when nutrients are most needed. Avoid placing the plant in areas with temperature fluctuations or high temperatures (e.g., near a radiator). This can not only cause yellowing leaves but also inhibit growth and flowering.
