Lycaste Yellowing Bulbs: Root Rot, Sunburn or Heat Stress?

Sudden yellowing of healthy Lycaste bulbs + new growths = three suspects. Narrow it down.

Diagnose

1. Root rot: If not repotted >1 year, mix degrades → rot → yellowing. Check at repot.
2. Too much sun: More light than previous years? Yellowing = bleaching.
3. Heat stress: Lycastes want 50–60°F year-round. Warmer microclimate?

Action by Growth Type

• Flower spikes: Let bloom finish, then repot if needed.
• Vegetative growths: Repot now (if >1 year). Move to cooler, shadier spot.

Key Preference

Cool, bright, airy. High heat + bright light = yellowing. Repot annually in open mix.