Help! New leaf growth dying? - Orchid Board

sunset360 · #1 07-15-2012, 04:28 PM

I purchased my Phal orchid several months ago - my first go at owning an orchid. So far, it has appeared very healthy. However, while we were on vacation a few weeks ago, there was a massive heat wave...and I mean massive. When we got back, the house was in the 90s and was likely at that temperature for about a week. My Phal dropped its last flower a few weeks before that, but was growing a second spike from a node on the main spike that had new buds forming. The new buds were clearly goners, so I cut the spike down completely and got the temp/humidity under control. Besides that one week, my Phal is always in 50-60% humidity, around 73 degrees, and in a room with curtained south and west facing windows. I have a moisture meter and have been diligent not to water until the potting material is nearly dry all the way through, although I did mist the leaves almost daily. So - here are my questions...

I've noticed the new leaf is looking rough now - I'm wondering if this was caused by the heat while we were gone or something else? And, is the leaf lost or is there something I can do to save it?

Also, I noticed some black spots around the base of the phal when inspecting it after vacation. Is this the beginning stages of rot? If so, any suggestions on how to combat? So far, I have only stopped misting the plant.

Thanks!!

WhiteRabbit · #2 07-15-2012, 11:55 PM

Glad you found us!

I'm not a Phal expert - only have a few, and struggle with them - I expect that leaf is a goner (altho - looking at the pic again, Idk - it's possible it may continue to grow, and just the tip will look bad); I don't know if the heat may have caused that- if it was very hot and you were away, the plant was also probably too dry as well, tho I don't know that insufficient water would cause the new growth to do that

I know I haven't helped a bit, but wanted to reply, since no one has yet - I'm sure others will be chiming in - and likely be better able to help you

Good luck!

Carpe Diem · #3 07-16-2012, 11:28 AM

to the OB! Although I have a few Phals. I can't help either, I am to inexperienced. There are Phal. growers here with much kowledge that will help you, once they see your post.

RosieC · #4 07-20-2012, 05:29 AM

I've not seen anything like that on a new leaf. Usually if dehydrated they will loose lower leaves. If it was the heat I would sort of expect all leaves to be affected. I think I would just see how it goes, I've had damaged crown leaves before which have then grown fine (just the tip kept the damage). If it doesn't get worse it probably was the heat, if it gets worse/spreads it might need more doing.