Why Are My Orchid Leaves Turning Yellow?
If your orchid’s leaves are yellow, this problem might be a sign that it is too hot. The temperature is too high, which will cause the leaves to fall off. However, if you keep the orchid in a consistent environment, the plant will eventually adjust to the new environment and will grow new leaves.
Orchid leaves turning yellow is a common problem among orchids planted indoors, and often stems from too much sunlight. Although this tropical plant prefers light, it needs only indirect sunlight to flourish. Too much direct sunlight will cause yellowing of the leaves, but not the roots.
Symptoms
When you have an orchid plant, you may notice its leaves are turning yellow. Sometimes this happens when they are drying out. It can also occur when they get too much direct sunlight. Generally, orchids prefer indirect light and avoid direct sunlight as much as possible. However, when they are exposed to too much direct light, the leaves will start to turn yellow and crack. The tips of the leaves may also burn or scald.
The best treatment for yellow orchid leaves is to remove the affected leaves and treat the affected orchid with a fungicide. However, you should not apply fungicide to healthy leaves. This can cause new growth and be damaging to the plant.
Causes
The first step to solve the problem of yellow orchid leaves is to identify the cause of the yellowing. This may be caused by a variety of factors, including poor lighting, poor feeding, and overheating. Yellowing leaves are normal for your orchid when it is old, but they can be a sign of trouble if they start on newer leaves. In such a case, you should try to move the plant to a brighter area and feed it with orchid food. Also, be sure to keep its temperature in a constant range.
A constant 55degF nighttime temperature range and a maximum of 75degF during the day are good for your orchid. But keep in mind that the temperature should not fall below 60degF for any extended period, as it can cause the leaves to turn yellow. In addition, lower temperatures cause the soil to stay wet for a long time, which can promote root rot.
Treatments
A variety of reasons can lead to the yellowing of orchid leaves. These problems include overwatering, too much light, and changes in temperature. They can also be caused by overfertilization and exposure to chemicals. Fortunately, these problems can often be easily corrected, especially if you notice them in their early stages.
The most important treatment for turning yellow orchid leaves is to reduce the amount of direct sunlight the plant receives. Direct sunlight is extremely harmful for orchids, as it causes them to become sunburned. Place orchids in filtered light as much as possible. Alternatively, place them near a north or east-facing window during the day.
Optimum temperatures
If you’ve noticed the leaves on your orchid turning yellow, it may be due to a sudden drop in temperature. It is best to keep orchids between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. In extreme temperatures, orchids can become stressed and develop black spots. Even a short dip below 75 degrees F can damage the leaves.
During the winter, you can move your orchid to a south -facing window to provide them with some warmth. However, during the summer months, you should keep them out of direct sunlight as too much sun can damage their roots. Another common cause of orchid leaves turning yellow is overwatering. Most novice gardeners over -water their houseplants, but understanding the plant’s needs can help you determine how much water you should give it each day.
Orchid plants love bright colors, but they don’t always like direct sunlight. The chlorophyll in the plant reflects the light, making it appear yellow while the other colors are prevented from reflecting and are able to stand out. This makes the leaves appear green. If the leaf is exposed to direct sunlight, it will turn yellow because the leaf was dry and not getting enough water. The best way to determine what may be going on with your orchid is to schedule an appointment with a local orchid grower.