Orchid leaves laying flat

[RachelR]

I bought some new orchids I've had for a few weeks. I've noticed that the leaves for the one in the middle with the pink flowers are laying flat. They're a laying flatter than when I first got them but it otherwise looks okay. Is this something I need be concerned about or get ahead of that the leaves are laying like this? Thanks for any feedback!

[SouthPark]

If the leaf feels floppy, then it's possible that the plant requires more water.

If it is growing indoor, then giving adequate air circulation will be beneficial to the plant's health.

Make sure the plants receive an adequate amount of light too.

[Afid]

Laying flat is a much more natural position for the leaves. They usually get bent upwards in shipping. I expect that the change in position is due to the leaves getting more floppy from minor dehydration. The main question is whether it is dehydration from underwatering or from root loss due to too much water. I would suggest watering it thoroughly in the morning and then seeing if the leaves are stiffer (more like the others, but it will probably stay flat). If it does perk up, than it was probably underwatering, otherwise, it might be a good idea to take a look at the root system. Having said all that, take it all with a grain of salt, other people may have better ideas and/or information and it probably wont hurt to wait a few days to see what other people have to say.

I hope this helps!

---------- Post added at 07:41 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:40 PM ----------

It is also quite likely that the leaves just moved down into their more natural position just from gravity and there is nothing wrong at all.

[Veksa]

When was it watered last time? May be underwatering. I have one orchid with big leaves, they perk up noticeably after a good soaking and then gradualy go to a more flatter softer condition, signaling it is time to water again.

[aliceinwl]

I agree it’s either the leaves assuming their preferred position or a water issue. If it’s a water issue, it’s due to insufficient water. It either needs to be watered more frequently or it lacks sufficient healthy roots to take up the water provided. I’d suggest checking out the roots to make sure it isn’t the latter.

If the roots don’t look great, repotting will often help in the long term. If you treat the roots gently, Phalaenopsis usually don’t miss a beat during a repot (even in full bloom). Don’t douse the roots in hydrogen peroxide and don’t cut any roots with firm sections even if they have black or mushy sections too.