New leaves on phals

I have noticed that when some phalaenopsis species and hybrids start to produce the new leaf - it comes out soft and limp. Is that supposed to be or is it indicator of poor cultivation?
It doesn't happen to all of my phals. I have noticed it with Phal. I-Hsin George, Princess Kaiulani, violacea seedlings.
They seem to harden after a while, but at the beginning one needs to be very careful with them.
Did anybody else notice such a tendency or is it just my problem?

Thanks

[quiltergal]

Many species Phals have leaves that are thinner than typical hybrids. Violacea, bellina, mannii, speciosa are a few that I have grown that start out with very fragile new leaves. They harden up after they have finished growing.

[Pilot]

^what she said.

[RosieC]

I do find that new leaves are generally a brighter green but also softer to the touch.

On some this is only noticable when you touch them, on others they are visible a little limp. My manmii generally starts with very limp leaves, that then harden up as they age. I've not noticed it on bellina however it's leaves are very pale as they start.

[Leadfoot]

Observations from a noob:

I just checked my two phals...which I've owned for a few months....

The NOID has 10" mature leaves that are much more firm than the 6" and 2" younger and still-growing leaves above them. So, yes, these newer growing leaves are more limp and thinner than their full grown sisters.

The Red Jewel has more firm younger leaves in comparison to the NOID. Could be that plant is not in good shape as it is recuperating in S/H, I can't really say, but the young leaves are much firmer than the NOID.

RosieC, Your avatar is captivating.

Have fun all....Mike

[RosieC]

Originally Posted by Leadfoot

RosieC, Your avatar is captivating.

Thanks Mike. When that was taken it was just a lone flower (these always have one per spike). Now there are 14 spikes ranging from open flowers to just started spikes. I'm really loving that masdi but don't think it will take a good photo showing all the current spikes

[Leadfoot]

Looking forward to the photos. What's the specific name of that beauty? Want to look into culture and consider adding it to my collection -- but a quick glance suggests they are cool growing, which is not exactly what I have here in Florida.