Wrinkled Phalaenopsis Leaves: Water, Roots, or Bugs?

Diagnose by Roots

Wrinkled, soft leaves mean water issue—either too much or too little. Check roots: soft/mushy = overwatered; shriveled/dry = underwatered.

Check for Pests

• Mealybugs: white woolly patches under leaves.
• Scale: brown/white turtle-shell bumps.
• Both suck moisture, killing leaves. Treat by repotting in fresh mix + systemic insecticide. Inspect all greenhouse plants.

Moss Top-Dressing Warning

Vendors use moss to reduce watering frequency. Buyers often overwater, rotting roots. Repot moss-topped plants into bark mix immediately.