Wrinkling on leaves and roots of my moth orchid? Any advice on how to help this poor guy out? At first I thought the issue was lack of light so I moved it to a sunnier spot where another orchid has been thriving, it’s only been a few weeks but how long should I wait if it doesn’t respond?
Wrinkling is a sign of dehydration. If you are top watering (pouring water through the pot) consider soaking the pot for 10 to 15 min each time you water. It will allow the plant to take up more on watering day. If it doesn’t improve, shorten the intervals between watering. You could also topdress the pot with sphagnum, providing the aerial roots a longer opportunity to take up water. You might want to post this on the Orchid Oasis forum. There are several experienced orchid people that actively post and respond there. Good luck!
6 LikesThank you! I have been soaking the pot but I think perhaps I haven’t been letting it soak for long enough, and I also think that planta’s watering schedule has been too long for most of my plants so I’ll try to give this one extra moisture
2 Likes I like to use Planta as a reminder, not an absolute. It’s very helpful but can’t take all your conditions into account. Good rule of thumb is water when the roots turn silver. If you have a clear pot, it’s an easy visual guide. If the pot is opaque, you might consider leaving a chopstick in the pot. Check periodically. If it’s wet feeling, don’t water. If it’s dry or barely damp, water.
3 LikesThat’s very good advice, thank you!
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