Troubleshooting
Large-flower Bulbophyllum problems — and how to fix them
Large-flower Bulbophyllum (Bulbophyllum macranthum) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Shrivelled pseudobulbs
Caused by insufficient watering or very low humidity. Increase watering frequency and humidity, and check that roots are healthy and functional.
Root rot
Decomposed or waterlogged medium causes root death. Repot into fresh bark, trim dead roots cleanly, and allow better drainage between waterings.
Mealybugs
Look for white cottony masses between pseudobulbs and at leaf axils. Treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab and follow up with neem oil spray.
Failure to rebloom
Bulbophyllums often need a distinct dry or cool rest period in winter to initiate flowering. Allow slightly drier conditions for 4-6 weeks after the growing season.
Slugs on mounts
Slugs damage pseudobulbs and new growths overnight in humid conditions. Use copper tape around the growing area or targeted organic slug pellets.
Prevent large-flower bulbophyllum problems before they start
Most large-flower bulbophyllum issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Large-flower Bulbophyllum problems — FAQ
Why is my large-flower bulbophyllum shrivelled pseudobulbs?
Caused by insufficient watering or very low humidity. Increase watering frequency and humidity, and check that roots are healthy and functional.
Why is my large-flower bulbophyllum root rot?
Decomposed or waterlogged medium causes root death. Repot into fresh bark, trim dead roots cleanly, and allow better drainage between waterings.
Why is my large-flower bulbophyllum mealybugs?
Look for white cottony masses between pseudobulbs and at leaf axils. Treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab and follow up with neem oil spray.
Why is my large-flower bulbophyllum failure to rebloom?
Bulbophyllums often need a distinct dry or cool rest period in winter to initiate flowering. Allow slightly drier conditions for 4-6 weeks after the growing season.
Why is my large-flower bulbophyllum slugs on mounts?
Slugs damage pseudobulbs and new growths overnight in humid conditions. Use copper tape around the growing area or targeted organic slug pellets.