There are various causes that cause one of the most common damage to orchids: the leaves turn brown. There is now an urgent need for action because the leaves are responsible for supplying the inflorescences with water and nutrients. Here we will tell you the two most common causes of the misery.
Why does my orchid have brown leaves?
Brown leaves on orchids are usually due to sunburn or waterlogging. To counteract this, place the plant in the west or east window and only water it when the substrate is slightly dry. Spray aerial roots with a gentle mist.
Cause No. 1: Sunburn
The south window is forbidden territory for orchids. Here the exotic rainforest flowers come under direct sunlight at midday in summer. The consequences are fatal because the leaves turn brown and die. Therefore, choose a location on the west or east window where the sensitive plants can enjoy mild sunshine in the morning or evening.
Cause No. 2: Waterlogging
The desire for high humidity does not imply that orchids need frequent and abundant watering. In fact, the epiphytes prefer a slightly moist substrate that dries well in the meantime. The foliage turns brown when an orchid suffers from wet feet. How to prevent the damage:
- If the aerial roots feel dry, immerse the entire root area in water
- Let the water drain well and only then put it in the planter
In addition, spray an orchid regularly with a gentle mist of room temperature, lime-free water. Include the aerial roots, because in the wild this is how epiphytic plants absorb moisture from the air.
Tip
Don't just cut off brown leaves. As long as it is still green in some areas, a leaf makes at least a rudimentary contribution to supplying bulbs, shoots, buds and flowers. Only when an orchid leaf has completely died should it ideally be plucked out, twisted out or cut off with a disinfected scalpel (€7.00 on Amazon).
