HELP!!! I’ve had this Vanda for two years and it has flowered 3 times for me. However, in the last few days I am seeing the leaves brown on one side of the plant near the base and it is starting to spread. What is it and how do I stop it?!?
The browning of leaves near the base of your Vanda orchid, especially if it's spreading, is concerning and could indicate a few possible issues: ### Possible Causes: 1. **Fungal or Bacterial Infection:** The symptoms you describe could be due to a fungal or bacterial infection, which is common in orchids if they are kept in conditions that are too humid without proper airflow. This can cause the base of the plant to rot and spread to the leaves. 2. **Overwatering:** Vandas require a lot of moisture but also need excellent drainage and airflow around the roots. If the roots are sitting in water or the medium retains too much moisture, it can lead to root rot, which then spreads to the plant base. 3. **Pest Infestation:** Occasionally, pests such as scale or mites can cause damage to orchids. They can weaken the plant, leading to secondary infections that cause browning and decay. ### What to Do: 1. **Inspect the Plant:** Check the roots and base of the plant thoroughly. If you see any black, mushy roots, this indicates root rot, and they need to be trimmed away. 2. **Trim Affected Areas:** Use sterilized scissors to cut away the affected leaves and any rotting or diseased tissue. This helps prevent the spread of infection. 3. **Treat with Fungicide/Bactericide:** After trimming, treat the plant with a fungicide or bactericide to kill any remaining pathogens. A common treatment is to use a solution of hydrogen peroxide (3%) on the affected areas. 4. **Improve Airflow and Watering:** Ensure the Vanda is in a well-ventilated area with good airflow. Vandas do best when their roots are allowed to dry out between waterings. Make sure you're not overwatering and that the plant has a chance to dry out. 5. **Adjust Growing Conditions:** Make sure the orchid is getting proper light (bright, indirect light) and that the growing medium or mounting setup allows for good drainage and airflow. ### Monitoring: - Keep an eye on the plant over the next few weeks for any signs of improvement or further deterioration. - Maintain a regular care routine, ensuring the plant is in optimal conditions to prevent future issues. By acting quickly and addressing the problem, you can help prevent the spread of the issue and potentially save the Vanda orchid.
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It’s not uncommon for Vandas to drop lower leaves, at least for us hobbyists. The brown spots almost look like sunburn. Has your plant been getting any errant rays?
0 Likes It sits in a western facing window so it is possible…but usually when it gets too much light its leaves turn a bit purple. That happened a few months ago but then turned back to green when I moved it away from the southern light source it was getting for winter. I’ll keep an eye on it for light that might be too strong. It isn’t seems strange that it is just those two spots. And not more of the leaves as well.
0 Likes Maybe sunlight is being focused kinda like a magnifying glass or from a reflection. Honestly, I feel like it’s a long shot but it’s all I’ve been able to come up with.
1 Like I’ll take any suggestions as I’m at a loss as well. I did move it out of the western window in the living room and put it in a western facing window that has a covered patio outside of it but then added a plant light. If it continues to decline it may go back in the bathroom a bit early this year as it lives there in the winter months with southern exposure.
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