remove phals sunburned leaf? - Orchid Board

Kailyn · #1 03-02-2013, 10:19 AM

Hello
I have a little Phal who is in the process of growing new roots and leaves after a severe battle with root rot. The bottom leaf is really sunburnt and ugly. one of the top leaves (not the one with new growth) is looking rather limp and wrinkled. will cutting the old leaf help the plant send what moisture it's getting to the wrinkled but healthier leaf? Its defiantly on the mend and I'm itching to remove the old ugly leaf. Any thoughts on if this will help or hurt?

Paul Mc · #2 03-02-2013, 10:37 AM

A picture may help, but typically once a leaf is wrinkled it will remain so. I personally would wait until the new leaves have fully developed and them cut the offending leaf off. As of now, its probably still photo synthesizing for the plant and it may still need it.

Paul Mc · #3 03-02-2013, 10:39 AM

But on second thought, how many healthy roots are there? It could also be that there isn't enough root structure to support all of the current leaves. Again, pics would help.

Kailyn · #4 03-02-2013, 11:11 AM

I am pretty sure that is whats going on. The roots just can't keep up the the demand from the leaves it has 1 good old root and 3-4 little ones starting. The damaged leaf is really yellow and doesn't feel like it has much to it, kind of leathery. note it would still have 2 healthy leaves as well as the one that is growing out if I cut the offending leaf. Sorry I don't have a pic Camera cord replacement is en'route from hong kong.

quiltergal · #5 03-02-2013, 11:17 AM

I would leave the ugly leaves on. The plant is using them for moisture and nutrients until it has a large enough root system to support the remaining leaves. If you cut them off one of the healthier would have to be used by the plant. The old leaves will drop on their own when the plant is done with them.

Calbears · #6 03-09-2013, 02:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by quiltergal

I would leave the ugly leaves on. The plant is using them for moisture and nutrients until it has a large enough root system to support the remaining leaves. If you cut them off one of the healthier would have to be used by the plant. The old leaves will drop on their own when the plant is done with them.

Have to agree with Quil. Even though your leaf is ugly, the plant can recycle the nutrients from that leaf as it falls of. A pic couldn't hurt.