Yellow spots and splotches on epidendrum

[KeyWestSunset]

Noticed these yellow splotches showing up on the upper parts of my epidendrum.
There is also a terete vanda with it. Which doesn't show the same symptoms. They've been growing on this board for probably 2 years.
Its been in full shade and full sun (gradually of course) in that time. Its been very neglected. I know it doesn't get watered or fertilized enough.
I also have had temperature fluctuations outside. For example last month one day its 85°F, then get a cold front rainstorm at night making it 52°F, then next day its in the 60's, then a day later it back in the 80's.
So maybe its environmental, or a nutrient deficiency? I'm hoping its not a fungus or worse, a virus!

[Bud]

Its a fungus infestation that started from a bug bite (the black spots), do not worry these plants are hardy and can withstand abuse and extreme temperatures. If the Vanda is not affected then the Epidendrum is fine. You may resort to home remedies or anti-fungi chemicals. Its not a virus or else the vanda would have the spots too.

[Orchid Whisperer]

I would at least be a bit suspicious. You can't prove or disprove virus infection without testing. If you don't want to go that route, keep isolated from other plants.

Bud's suggestion could be right. Pursuing the fungus possibility, go to the St. Augustine Orchid Society website. Read up on diseases, especially fungus diseases and look at their table listing fungicides. Pick a chemical that fits the fungus you think you may have, follow the instructions and treat the plant. If it recovers, you may have your answer.

A word of caution. If it blooms and the flowers are malformed or colors are blotchy - well, that could be 'color break', suggesting virus (again), and I'd discard the plant.

[estación seca]

Somebody in your area who grows orchids has probably seen this. Another reason to join a nearby orchid society.

[lzel924]

I know this is an old post but am wondering how you treated this or what happened with the plant? I have identical spots on my Vanda and its spread to another one nearby.

[DirtyCoconuts]

that looks like sun to me.

without touching and getting up close to see the thickness and rigidity of the leaves i cant rule anything out but a lot of my outdoor (not in the patio) plants have similar colors and spots.

I also find that on the plants that i rescue, they will have ALL manner of leaf issue from sunburn to extreme lack of water to bugs and beyond and a HUGE number of them will not only not kill the plants but many of the affected leaves will live on fine despite the injury.


What happened to this plant?