Phalaenopsis Top Leaf Yellow/Wrinkled After Friend's Care: Overwatering or Crown Fungus?

Friend Overwatered Phalaenopsis for 2 Weeks: Top Leaf Yellow, Wrinkly, Droopy

Year-old Phal, 1 new leaf summer. Friend cared for 2 weeks, told not to overwater. Returned: top leaf limp, yellow, wrinkly, soil wet. Repotted yesterday: roots yellow-brown base, green tips, ¼" mushy tips cut off. Rest firm.

Diagnosis: Water on Leaves → Crown Fungus

• Friend likely got water in leaf axils.
• Overnight moisture → fungus (black sooty at leaf base) → kills leaf.
• Top leaf affected because water pools there.

Post-Repot Watering

• If watered after repot: watch dry-down. Water next morning when mix barely moist (pot light).
• Keep leaves dry; remove drops.
• Air movement helps evaporation.

Check Other Leaves

Inspect crowns for black fungus. Wipe with alcohol if found.

Root trim was good. Focus on dry crowns and proper watering cycle.