Phalaenopsis deliciosa with pock marks all over the top leaf.

[Orchid_newbie_101]

I ordered this Phalaenopsis deliciosa var. Hookerina from a reputable online orchid nursery last week. When I received it, I quarantined it away from my current collection and noticed that it had these pock marks all over the large leaf. There are marks like these on the lower leaves as well, but not as prominent (maybe 4-5 per leaf). Is this a virus or fungal infection? Should I discard this plant? Thanks so much in advance.

I ordered this Phalaenopsis deliciosa var. Hookerina from a reputable online orchid nursery last week. When I received it, I quarantined it away from my current collection and noticed that it had these pock marks all over the large leaf. There are marks like these on the lower leaves as well, but not as prominent (maybe 4-5 per leaf). Is this a virus or fungal infection? Should I discard this plant? Thanks so much in advance.

[Roberta]

Not likely virus (which can only be determined for sure with a test) or fungal problem. It looks like an insect has been munching. No need to discard the plant. You might send a photo to the vendor. They can either diagnose it as "old business" - once bitten the marks won't go away but hopefully it has been treated - or replace the plant. But it does look like a nice healthy plant. As long as this doesn't represent something that's still a problem should be OK. Do observe to see if you get any more. If not, another sign that it has been controlled and is OK.

I merged this with the post under Pests and Diseases since they were duplicates - you want all the responses to be in one place.,

[MateoinLosAngeles]

I always keep plants isolated for about two weeks when I first get them. If you see more marks popping up or you're concerned about a pest spreading, a spray with insecticidal soap or organishield should help removing on contact a wide number of pests frequently found on orchid leaves. A strong water stream will help dislodge any remaining insects.

[Dalachin]

I am no expert, but I had spots like that on a couple of my phals which came to believe might be “edema” from spraying leaves and watering in the evening. No harm seemed to come from them, and I stopped seeing them when I ceased the aforementioned activities.