maxillaria tenuifolia - new leaves on new pseudobulbs growing crinkled

[karebear5612]

I bought this coconut orchid last summer in bloom, I was told it was out of season to bloom from the vendor. I’ve kept in same plastic pot and media, sphagnum moss. I watered very little in winter and more so as it gets warmer. I live in a hot, humid climate. The plant is inside near south facing window. There wasn’t a lot of growth until recently, when new pseudo bulbs and leaves started growing. I noticed the top looked wrinkled, and I thought leaf was stuck so I pulled it out. But now all the new growth looks like this. Is this normal? Not sure if I can amend problem and what I may be doing wrong. Any advise appreciated! Attached photos.

[fishmom]

Hello, karebear, and welcome. Very sorry for the late response. I hope by this time you have gotten some other advice, but I would say that your plant is pretty dehydrated. That is the most common cause of crinkled leaves, and also the pseudobulbs are also shriveled.



Are you sure that the medium is getting thoroughly moistened when you water? Have you checked the roots? It is possible that the roots have died back and that the plant is not able to take up water when you give it. You didn't say if you have ever repotted the plant, but sphagnum moss will deteriorate over time, so it may need fresh medium. Moss is good for moisture retention, but it is hard to handle for many home growers. If you repot, you might consider a fine bark mix.