Phalaenopsis Cold Damage: Leaf Triage and Fungus Prevention

Blizzard Exposure: Assess and Trim Damaged Tissue

A Phalaenopsis carried in a thin plastic bag through freezing temps showed bruised, semi-wilting leaves 9 days later.

Leaf Triage

• Leaf with descending yellow: Cut 1 inch below yellowing—frozen tip necrosis progressing down.
• Leaf with necrotic spots: Cut below all damage—fungal/viral infection from cold injury.
• Seal all cuts with powdered sulfur, Rootone, or fungicide.

Next Steps

• Repot if not done in 2 years—fresh bark mix, drained pot.
• East window, reduce watering by half until repotted.
• 65–85°F, humidity >50%.

Cold damage opens doors for fungus. Clean cuts and fresh media give the best recovery.