is my Phal dying? - Orchid Board

melatie · #1 06-03-2008, 02:06 AM

I just brought this Phal back from my trip to Holland. A few days ago I noticed a spot; this is what it looked like a few hours ago. Is it dying? HELP!!!

quiltergal · #2 06-03-2008, 02:21 AM

If you are talking about the black spot in the center of the crown it looks like the beginnings of crown rot. I'd pour some 3% hydrogen peroxide in there an let it sit for a few minutes and then pour it out.

You get crown rot from getting and leaving water in the crowns. Make sure when you water that your leaves are dry and there is no moisture in the crown when you're done.

BikerDoc5968 · #3 06-03-2008, 06:57 AM

Indeed, it has the appearance of crown rot. H2O2 works as does cinnamon/alcohol, or Physan 20 or similar product. It isn't dead, yet but you may have a long wait until it ???possibly???? will grow a basal keiki. I got lucky with this one but I haven't been as fortunate with several others. Over a 3 or 4 month period I had several orchids get crown rot. So I got myself some RD-20 (Physan-20 is the same stuff made by someone else) and I spray at least monthly. I even spray the phal flowers lightly to prevent spotting which is caused my a mold....and no more crown rot nor spots on the flowers!

Lorraine · #4 06-03-2008, 09:47 AM

I agree, it looks like crown rot. If you lose the leaves fill the space with cinnamon an leave it alone. Water as usual when the roots are dry and wait. Hopefully you'll get a new keiki from the base. I lost a beautiful phal and did not know at the time what to do. Since then I'm more careful not to leave any water in the crown (even tip the pot and blow the water out) I have a couple that have had the Physan treatment and then the cinnamon and they are doing fine. Good Luck, hope yours makes it.

melatie · #5 06-03-2008, 03:28 PM

Thank you!! I'll try everything suggested. Wish me goodluck...

jkofferdahl · #6 06-03-2008, 03:35 PM

I've yet to experience crown rot (knock on wood), but have heard that the use of Keiki Grow can greatly speed the recovery of a plant so afflicted. I've used Keiki Grow to actually grow keikis and it's wonderful stuff.

Rothie · #7 06-03-2008, 08:25 PM

Lots of great pics and info in this thread.Thanks a lot!