This is a very old orchid - it was my husband’s grandmother’s! Other than these black spots, I believe it looks healthy. I repotted it about a month ago after 2 yrs in the same pot. (I’m new to orchids). I had to cut away all of the roots. Now they’re beginning to pop out everywhere - whew! The orchids are watered 1x/wk and the spits aren’t getting worse or better. ???
1- I would be more concerned about the large dark spots on the pseudobulbs. Are they soft and mushy? Are they getting bigger/ spreading? If so, you may have to remove those growths to protect the rest of the orchid. 2-the leaves look healthy other than the one with questionable spots. But I would be cautious as it’s pretty dehydrated. As the roots continue to grow, the pseudobulbs will become less wrinkly and more plump. Until then, it will struggle to fight off any infections as it’s very depleted. 3- going forward- watering should not be based on a once a week timeline, but AS NEEDED. It’s important to let orchid roots have access to air between waterings, you don’t want the media damp all the time. However- this plant has been without water for way too long. Water it. If the medium is dry in 3 or 4 days- water again. Everyone’s home environment is different, so in one person’s very humid home, 10 days may be what it takes for an orchid to dry out. In a dry home, during growing season, you may have to water every 3 days.
1 likePS- how wonderful to have your husband’s GRANDMOTHER’s orchid! Hope it continues in its recovery for you!
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Nothing to add to Jen’s advice. Just wanted to root for Granny’s orchid!!!
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From AI: Your friend’s orchid seems to be facing a few issues, which could be contributing to its current state. Here are a few suggestions based on the visible characteristics: 1. **Spotted Leaves**: The black spots on the leaves may indicate a fungal or bacterial infection, common in orchids when humidity is too high or airflow is insufficient. To help: - Remove any affected leaves carefully with sterile scissors. - Ensure the plant is in a well-ventilated area with good airflow. - Use a fungicide or bactericide appropriate for orchids. 2. **Wrinkled Pseudobulbs**: The wrinkling and possible softening of the pseudobulbs suggest the plant might not be getting enough water, or alternatively, that it has been overwatered and has root rot. Here's what to do: - Check the roots: Gently remove the plant from its pot and examine the roots. Healthy roots should be white or light green. If they are brown and mushy, cut away the damaged roots. - Adjust watering: Water the orchid thoroughly when the potting mix is dry, but avoid leaving it in standing water. Orchids generally thrive when watered sparingly but deeply. 3. **Repotting**: Given that it is an older orchid, repotting could help refresh the plant. Use a bark-based orchid mix, and make sure the pot has good drainage. This can help prevent further issues like root rot. 4. **Light and Humidity**: Orchids need indirect but bright light. Ensure it’s getting enough light but not direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves. Humidity should be moderate, and misting the plant lightly can help, but avoid wetting the leaves too much. Addressing these issues should help restore the orchid to better health. Let me know if you need more detailed steps!
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