Gardening & Landscaping
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Orchid's leaving darkening and turning purply

My orchid is not in bloom but the leaves were healthy.  Now they are dark green and turning a purply/pink on the edges/ends.  They are inside with morning sun, not direct.  I water them once every 2 weeks depending on if the soil is damp.  The pot has drainage.  Any ideas?

Also, my other orchid (different part of the house) just dropped it blossoms and the stalk is yellowing.  Is this normal?

image

Re: Orchid's leaving darkening and turning purply

  • I don't know about the purply/pink leaf edges, but the dropped blossoms and yellowing stalk is normal.  Just part of the process.
    Willa 4.6.06 and Henry 10.18.08 Camp Sinki
  • nitalnital member
    Tenth Anniversary 10000 Comments Combo Breaker
    Are the leaves still looking turgid and otherwise normal?  Some phals turn dark green and purple when they get a lot of light.  Keep an eye on that orchid, because as the season changes, that spot might be too sunny.
    image
    Have you seen my monkey?
  • imagenital:
    Are the leaves still looking turgid and otherwise normal?  Some phals turn dark green and purple when they get a lot of light.  Keep an eye on that orchid, because as the season changes, that spot might be too sunny.

    Shoot!  It was beautiful today so I placed in right smack in the middle of the sunny spot.  I'll move it to a more shaded area. The leaves look the same as other pnes I've seen.  I'll try to post a pic.

    image
  • orchids don't like direct sunlight.  Some don't even neeed to be in front of a window.  As long as they can get ambient natural light, most of them are good to go.  You have to remember; these plants grow far under rainforest canopies where not a lot of sunlight can get to them. 

     If your leaves look plump and waxy (no wrinkles, not limp) then you're in good shape with your plant.  Usually when leaves darken, it's a good sign.  just keep an eye on the light spots- your plant may need to go a little shadier if you see them start to expand or notice a texture change in the leaves 

    If they start to wrinkle or go like cooked spinach, there could be a number of things off; mostly humidity and moisture issues. 

    I've had my phal for about 3 years now, but she hasn't bloomed since i first got her- but her leaves are happy and roots look strong.  She's in the north facing kitchen about 10 feet from the window with the sash drawn.  orchids are kind of picky but when they're happy, they'll definitely let you know :)

    Also, don't cut the dead flower spike: as long as there is color in it, it's making food for the plant.  I leave mine on until they're brown and brittle all the way down- then cut them about 1/2" from the base of the flower.

     

     

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