How to Care for Black Spots on the Leaves of Orchid Plants

Orchids are beautiful, delicate flowers to grow but they are also sensitive to less-than-ideal conditions. One sign that your orchid may have a problem is black spots on the leaves. A few orchids, such as Oncidium hybrids, get these black spots from exposure to sun, but most black spots are signs of a fungus. This can spread and destroy the foliage on a plant. Treat the spots as soon as you see them to keep the plant healthy.

Sharp knife
Fungicide spray

Instructions

- 1
  Move the orchid to a location where it gets filtered light because direct light can cause spotting. Isolate the orchid from other orchids in case it is a fungus. Wait a few days to see if the black spots change. If the spots get larger you have a fungus.
- 2
  Cut off leaves that have extensive black spotting using a clean, sharp knife. Discard the leaves and sterilize your knife before using it on another plant.
- 3
  Spray a orchid fungicide on both sides of the leaves. Leave the plant for one week to see if the spots disappear. If they return, spray the leaves again.
- 4
  Water the orchid sparingly since this encourages fungus to grow. Do not let it dry out completely, just cut back on the waterings and don't let it sit in water. It is also beneficial to decrease the humidity in the room as the plant recovers. Water the plant as usual once the fungus is gone.

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