Broken Phalaenopsis Leaf: Fungus Check, Cinnamon Treatment, and New Growth Outlook

Question:

Phal in spike, top leaf yellowing. Inspection: cut halfway through near base. Probably broke during watering/moving. Prevent plant death?

Answer:

Hello Grace,

Check closer: really broken, or another cause? Fear: fungus = black sooty area/spot at base. If black sooty: remove as much as possible, treat with powdered cinnamon (baking kind) to arrest fungus. Monitor for spread.

Hope it's just a break.

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, CA

Follow-up: No black/sooty at base. Leaf almost completely broken off. OK without top leaf?

Follow-up Answer:

Hi Grace, relief!

Fine with broken leaf, even if it falls. Main concern: new leaf from top/crown. Broken leaf won't prevent new growth. New leaves should match/exceed previous size—if not, something needs attention. Takes 3–4 months from start to maturity.

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, CA