Phalaenopsis Black Spots Spreading: Bacterial/Fungal Infection, Not Sunburn

Diagnosis

Spreading black spots + yellowing + white bumps = bacterial or fungal infection (e.g., Erwinia, Phytophthora), not sunburn. Sunburn is static; spreading = active pathogen.

Fertilizer Overdose?

1/4 fertilizer to 3/4 water is extreme (likely meant ¼ tsp/gal). Overfeeding stresses roots, invites disease.

Prognosis

Once infection spreads to multiple leaves, survival is unlikely. Major surgery (cutting to clean tissue) rarely works on Phalaenopsis.

Recommendation

Discard plant. Sanitize area. Start fresh with proper care: weak weekly fertilizer, morning watering, bright indirect light, annual bark repot.