Troubleshooting
Whip Brassavola problems — and how to fix them
Whip Brassavola (Brassavola flagellaris) 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.
Leaf tip browning
Brown leaf tips on the long terete leaves are typically caused by fluoride sensitivity or salt build-up from tap water or over-fertilising. Flush the mount or medium thoroughly with pure water monthly and switch to rainwater or RO water.
Crown rot at pseudobulb base
Water pooling at the junction of pseudobulb and leaf rots the tissue rapidly in humid, still conditions. Ensure strong air movement around the plant, particularly in summer. If rot is detected, cut away affected tissue cleanly and dust with cinnamon powder.
Reluctance to bloom indoors
Insufficient light intensity is the usual culprit. Brassavola flagellaris blooms most prolifically in very bright conditions approaching outdoor light levels. Supplement with a high-output grow light at 4,000+ foot-candles for 14 hours daily if a bright window is unavailable.
Prevent whip brassavola problems before they start
Most whip brassavola issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Whip Brassavola problems — FAQ
Why is my whip brassavola leaf tip browning?
Brown leaf tips on the long terete leaves are typically caused by fluoride sensitivity or salt build-up from tap water or over-fertilising. Flush the mount or medium thoroughly with pure water monthly and switch to rainwater or RO water.
Why is my whip brassavola crown rot at pseudobulb base?
Water pooling at the junction of pseudobulb and leaf rots the tissue rapidly in humid, still conditions. Ensure strong air movement around the plant, particularly in summer. If rot is detected, cut away affected tissue cleanly and dust with cinnamon powder.
Why is my whip brassavola reluctance to bloom indoors?
Insufficient light intensity is the usual culprit. Brassavola flagellaris blooms most prolifically in very bright conditions approaching outdoor light levels. Supplement with a high-output grow light at 4,000+ foot-candles for 14 hours daily if a bright window is unavailable.