Two Sick Phalaenopsis: Sooty Mold and Root Rot

A new grower has two Phalaenopsis: white one with moldy black roots (2 weeks), yellow one losing leaves down to one yellow leaf. Both fertilized and drained.

White Phalaenopsis: Sooty Mold

• Likely harmless sooty mold (unsightly)
• Indicates stagnant air, high humidity
• Fix: small fan, dry more between waterings, fungicide if desired

Yellow Phalaenopsis: Root Rot - Likely Too Late

• Unpot, remove mushy roots, repot in fresh mix
• With only one yellowing leaf, recovery is unlikely
• If saved: long wait for new roots, then new leaves

Root rot from nursery overwatering (peat moss stays too wet).