Diagnosing Brown Leaves and Prominent Veins on Phalaenopsis Under Artificial Light

Potential Causes

1. Root Rot: Surface roots look white but deeper roots may be rotted in degraded mix. Unpot and inspect all roots.
2. Leaf Burn: One leaf shows overheating damage—unsightly but not fatal.
3. Insufficient Light: 20W fluorescent is too low. Use at least two 40W tubes (shop light) for Phalaenopsis.

Action

Repot in fresh bark mix if roots are rotted. Increase light intensity significantly.