Ridges on phalaenopsis leaves

[Pati/orchid newbie]

What do ridges on the leaves mean? Is it an indication of watering (too much or not enough) or maybe a lighting issue? Also, how long does it take for leaves to react to it's lighting conditions.....to know if they are happy or sad:scratchhead

[Calbears]

Bump...

Welcome to Orchidboard.

Not sure. I have some oncidiums with pleated leaves which is an indication of insufficient water uptake. This can be due to either simple under watering or a root system that can't keep up with the plant's demands. Over watering can rot roots causing this. I haven't seen ridges or pleating on my phals. Mine get leathery and lose their turgor pressure when under watered.

Post some pics when you get a chance. They'll really help the members see what's going on with your orchid.

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

I think I may know what you're talking about - but I'd prefer to see a pic in order to be sure of what I say...

Playing the guessing game costs time.

[OhioBob]

Pati, Are the ridges you describe parallel with the length of the leaf? If so I don't think they mean anything. I have three phals that have ridges and three others that have smooth leaves. I think it depends on the genetics of the individual plant. My first phal has deeply grooved leaves but the other two have small ridges.

[Pati/orchid newbie]

Originally Posted by OhioBob

Pati, Are the ridges you describe parallel with the length of the leaf? If so I don't think they mean anything. I have three phals that have ridges and three others that have smooth leaves. I think it depends on the genetics of the individual plant. My first phal has deeply grooved leaves but the other two have small ridges.

Yes, they are parallel with the length of the leaf. It's a mini and the longest leaf has the most prominent ridges, the remaining 3 are less prominent. It has one spike that has blooms and buds on it. I will try to post pics if I can figure out how to do it! I have a total of 10 phals and all look a little different- color, shape and texture. I'm addicted! Thanks for your comments!

[Silje]

I also think I know what you mean. I've also got a couple of NOID phals with ridges like the ones you descibe, but like the others I'd like to see pictures. Regarding my own 'ridged' phals, I've always looked at it the same way that I look at the colouring of the leaves. Some phals have a purple tint, others don't. Some are naturally lighter green while others are darker. Some have spots, others are evenly coloured. It's just the way they are. Some of these things can perhaps give an expert a hint of possible parentage, but for me it's just...differences. And I don't worry about the ridges. The plants seem healthy and are growing, making roots and flowers. But if you manage to take picture, please do. Maybe this is way more serious than I think.

[RosieC]

Pati you should have enough posts to add pictures now. Take a look in the links in my signature if you need help with that.

I can't quite imagine what you mean, so it would be a big help to understand what you mean, and will help confirm for those that think they know what you mean.

[Island Girl]

I will add that pics will help others know what is going on with their plants, if they have the same thing showing up on their leaves