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Phal. Orchid Terri Henderson


Question
I bought several orchids in February.  They have been blooming ever since, one of them however seems to be giving me issues.  Some of the small underlying leaves are turning a lighter green, probably dying off because there are 3 huge ones above it, but I noticed today that it's stalk is a hot pink color, just like the flowers on it!  Help, what's wrong with it?!

Answer
Sorry that you apparently did not receive my earlier answer to this question. I may not have followed proper precedure.  It is not unusual for the lower leaves of a Phal to turn yellow and die.  That may be normal for this plant.  Also, after flowering, the old flower spike may die back and the initial signs of this may be turning a red color. An alternative explanation for the red flower spike is a bleeding of the pigments from the flower into the spike because you mentioned the hot pink color of the flowers.  It also suggests that you may have grown the plant too bright.

I recommend that you keep your phals in an east window or where they receive only morning sunlight.  They are not a high light plant.

After flowering, I recommend that you annually repot your phals in an orchid potting mix.  Most mixes deteriorate fairly rapidly and a fresh mix will help to ensure there is plenty of air movement in the mix and that the mix is not too water retentive. During the repotting process, after removing the plant from the pot, wash the roots thoroughly and remove all roots that are mushy.  Healthy roots are firm and turn green when watered. They are the key to a healthy plant. The fact that you have three strong leaves suggests that this plant has a future in your household.  Like anything it needs "maintenance" now and then.

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