Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Snow Bear: Shriveled Leaves and Root Rot

Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Snow Bear: Root Rot from Decomposed Mix

Fernanda's Phal. I-Hsin Snow Bear hasn't bloomed in 2-3 years. Three leaves are limp, one shriveled with brown spots underneath. It's in a south-facing window with diffused light, 65-68°F, watered weekly with 20-10-20 fertilizer, drained well.

Expert Response

Fernanda, your plant needs repotting in fresh orchid mix. The leaf symptoms indicate root rot from decomposed potting mix. When unpotting, you'll find mushy or stringy roots (healthy roots are firm, turn green when wet). Rotting roots cut off nourishment to leaves, which then die. Light, temperature, and fertilizer are fine, but repotting should have occurred after first flowering. The shriveled leaves will fall off. Hopefully you have at least 1-2 healthy roots to grow new leaves. Without healthy roots, recovery is doubtful.