Phalaenopsis Crinkled Leaves: Root Check Determines Cause

Your daughter's Phalaenopsis lost its bud; now leaves crinkle. Another has a keiki (three small leaves) on the spike. What to do?

Crinkled Leaves = Root Problem

• Soft, mushy roots = overwatering.
• Dry, shriveled roots = underwatering.
• Unpot to check. Dead roots can't be revived.

If Few Live Roots Remain

Use the "sphag-and-bag" method: whole plant in ziploc with damp moss/paper towel, warm shady spot, open weekly. Can take months.

If Several Live Roots Exist

Repot in a smaller pot—less media stays wet longer. Keep crinkled leaves until they fall naturally.

Keiki Management

• Bag method: cut spike off entirely.
• Small pot method: leave keiki until roots >2 inches, then remove and pot separately.