Epy Serena O'Neill...Virus?
 

I have this plant, bought it in 2013/2014 as a bag Baby. It grew very well, but has never flowered. Lately, it has mottled dark brown to black markings on its leaves. I feel like maybe this is a virus? I've never had a plant get a virus before...if it is, I will be forced to destroy it?

I am not emotionally attached to this plant as I am to some others.

You can't really tell without testing. It looks a lot like fungus to me. Are you giving it enough calcium? What water are you using? What fertilizer? What pH is your water?

ES has asked some good questions. To my eye it also doesn't look like a virus, though I've only seen, in person, virus on tobacco leaves and not orchids. Some of the spots look like they could be simple physical damage, but a lot of it makes me wonder just what ES also asks about. A number of care deficiencies can lead to similar appearance, as can a fungal infection.

I would start by isolating the plant, and then trying different treatments. Blast it with a fungicide and watch it for a bit. Meanwhile, check on the water you use, both for content and pH. How are you presently fertilizing?

Finally, if you're really worried about a virus you can cut off a leaf and send it to a lab for testing.

I use my tap water. I'm not sure what the pH is, but I have 20 or so orchids, many of them phals or oncidium alliance and none of them look like this. The dark spots are not mushy and are dry without any odor. I use an extended release granule from repotme.com.

I'm not sure how much it would cost to have it tested, but I don't want to invest too much into it. I recently moved it to a window that gets more light, so the one leaf that is burnt is my fault.

I don't think it's a virus. I sometimes have newly-acquired Cattleyas develop black spots on leaves within a month of arriving here. I sometimes wonder whether it might represent old spider mite damage.

Most of Florida's tap water has high pH and high mineral content. The high pH keeps many plants from absorbing as much calcium, and other minerals, as they need. You might consider collecting rain, and using a fertilizer formula intended for use with rain or reverse osmosis water. This will give an appropriate pH. Minerals will be absorbed better.

You can take it to your local county agricultural extension for some help, as well.

This is a wonderful suggestion! I'm fortunate to have developed quite a good relationship with a local Ag agent; she does a lot of programs for me at my library. I'm always amazed by her knowledge of insect control, but she's also quite adept at diagnosing problems. We don't often mention Ag agents on this board but they are often an excellent source of information.

I've frequently mentioned that option but, generally get ignored. Hmmph.

I have a plant with similar spots. A good dose of fungicide seemed to do the trick.

I have some physan. I will call my local extension office in the morning. Although I don't love this plant, I rather not lose it if possible.

Thanks for the replies so far ! :)

Physan 20 is what I used.

@kimstwin how is your Epy Serena O'Neill today? any lessons learned from this coloration/spotting?

I have one right now that looks nearly identical to what you posted in 2017 so I was curious if you had any words of wisdom :)