How to Tell If a Phalaenopsis Orchid Is Sick

Although moth orchids (Phalaenopsis spp.) are no more difficult to grow than most other container plants, they are subject to a number of diseases and physiological conditions. Observing the plant daily will help you detect some of these problems before they become serious enough to threaten the life of the plant. Problems like discolored leaves, spots of the petals and failure to bloom are easily corrected once you know the cause. You can grow moth orchids outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 through 12, but they are usually grown in containers because they need a special orchid growing medium.

Full-strength liquid houseplant fertilizer

Instructions

- 1
  Check for round, brown spots on the flower petals. The spots are caused by a fungal disease called petal blight. Remove the affected flowers and improve the air circulation around the plant by opening a window or turning on a small fan.
- 2
  Observe the plant for crinkled, blotchy leaves accompanied by slow growth. These symptoms are caused by one of several viruses that affect moth orchids. There is no cure and the plant will not recover. You should destroy the orchid to prevent the disease from spreading to other plants. Viruses spread through contaminated tools and hands as well as insect vectors.
- 3
  Watch for brown leaf tips, which indicate that the plant is getting too much fertilizer or not enough moisture. Fertilize the plant every third time you water. Use a liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted half and half with water in spring and summer. Use 1 part fertilizer to 3 parts water in fall and winter. Allow the potting medium to dry to a depth of 1 inch before watering the orchid. Keep the humidity around a moth orchid high by using a cool-mist vaporizer or placing the plant above a tray of pebbles and water.
- 4
  Move the orchid when the leaves turn pale green. Pale leaves indicate the plant is getting too much light. Place it in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. The rays of the sun should never touch the foliage.

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