AboutWayne King Expertise Any question about orchid culture. I have thirty+ yrs of growing experience,president 2x of our local Orchid Growers Guild,held a position in most all other offices associated with the Guild at one time or another. Head of Orchid judging team for local club meetings and some shows. Member of two Orchid Socities and local Rep.for Mid America Orchid Congress for several yrs.I have in my collection about 800 Orchid plants of all types.
Experience
Past/Present clients Previously an expert on expertcentral.com.
I got a Phalaenopsis 2 weeks ago. It's currenlty in full bloom. I just noticed the two bottom leaves becoming leathery looking. I haven't repotted since it's blooming so I'm not sure what the roots look like. For the past 4 days it's been sitting in a humidity tray in full direct sunlight (about 2 inches from the window pane). It's in it's original plastic pot. There are drainage in the bottom and I added a few more holes on the side. What should I do about the leather leaves?
Answer Jinny, leathery leaves are likely genetic and could indicate the plant is a tetraploid. If the flowers are large and have heavy substance, this could be another indication of tetraploidy. Usually, this is a good thing. I think that you should back the plant further from the window. Phalaenopsis like direct sunshine if it's in the morning, hence not so bright. I think you are doing the right things. When it finishes flowerng, you could repot it, although, from what I can see in the photo, the potting mix seems to be fairly fresh.
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