Troubleshooting
Orchid problems — and how to fix them
Orchid (Phalaenopsis spp.) 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.
No re-bloom
Insufficient light, or no 10°C night-day temperature drop to trigger a new spike.
Yellow lower leaves
Natural turnover; usually nothing to worry about.
Mushy roots
Bark medium has broken down — repot in fresh coarse bark.
Wrinkled leaves
Either underwatering or, more often, root loss preventing water uptake.
Prevent orchid problems before they start
Most orchid issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Orchid problems — FAQ
Why is my orchid no re-bloom?
Insufficient light, or no 10°C night-day temperature drop to trigger a new spike.
Why is my orchid yellow lower leaves?
Natural turnover; usually nothing to worry about.
Why is my orchid mushy roots?
Bark medium has broken down — repot in fresh coarse bark.
Why is my orchid wrinkled leaves?
Either underwatering or, more often, root loss preventing water uptake.