Should I remove the leaves?

[labyrinth1959]

I have a Phalaenopsis that went through quite a struggle to survive but now appears to be making a comeback. It has two older leaves and three relatively new ones that are healthy and shiny and about 5-6 inches long. The two older leaves are about 9 inches long, thick, wrinkled and soft leathery to the touch but still dark green in color. I am wondering if the old leaves should be removed from the plant? I not sure if they are helping or hindering the plant recovery. Would appreciate advice or comments.

[fishmom]

Even leathery-looking leaves can help nurture a plant if they are still green. They will not get firm and shiny again, but just leave them be until they turn yellow, as they eventually will do.

[estación seca]

I never remove leaves unless they are clearly infected with something. I let them dry up and fall off on their own.

[No-Pro-mwa]

Originally Posted by estación seca

I never remove leaves unless they are clearly infected with something. I let them dry up and fall off on their own.

I agree wait until they get yellow before you take them off.

I always try and wait but I end up when they get yellow then I take them off. I have no patience for some things

[PaphMadMan]

Anything green is good. Anything. That applies to old leafless canes or backbulbs as well as leaves. If the plant can't support them or they are no longer productive or useful for storage it will still benefit by removing the water and nutrients it can from them as they wither, even after they yellow. The only exceptions would be diseased/rotting tissue or extreme short term heat/drought stress.

[Orchid Whisperer]

I agree. The old leaves should stay.