Emergency: Bacterial Leaf Rot on Your Office Orchid

Identifying the Problem

That gooey, translucent spot spreading rapidly across the leaf? Classic bacterial infection. It typically occurs when water sits on leaves overnight—common with late-day watering.

Immediate Action Plan

1. Remove the infected leaf entirely: Cut well below any sign of rot using sterile tools.
2. Seal the cut: Apply sulfur powder or copper-based fungicide to the wound.
3. Stop watering for several days.
4. Water only in mornings: Avoid wetting leaves entirely.
5. Improve air circulation.

Critical Next Step: Repotting

Once flowering ends, repot immediately in fresh orchid mix:

• Use coarse, fir-bark-based orchid potting mix (available at Home Depot, Lowe's).
• Soak the mix overnight before use.
• Choose a plastic pot with abundant drainage holes.
• Rinse all roots, removing any mushy/dead ones.

Light Fix

Your windowless office is the root cause. Phalaenopsis need bright, indirect light. An east-facing window is ideal. The lunchroom move was a good temporary fix—make it permanent if possible.

Don't despair! With proper care, your orchid can recover and thrive.