- With these orchids, leaf shedding is the norm
- Common causes of leaf fall at a glance
- Healthy roots signal the will to survive
If an orchid has lost all of its foliage, this status raises questions. While a leafless state is the norm for some species of orchids, there is a need for action for other genera. Read here how to get an orchid without leaves back on track.
If the orchid has no leaves for a short time, this is not a cause for concern
With these orchids, leaf shedding is the norm
For some popular species and their hybrids, if your orchid is bare of leaves just before or just after flowering, this is not a cause for concern. Calanthe, Dendrobium and Pleione refrain from their foliage for some time, without this circumstance requiring special precautions. The important thing to note is that you don't cut off a leafless pseudobulb as long as it's thriving, plump and green.
Common causes of leaf fall at a glance
If it can be ruled out in advance that the orchid without leaves is a natural process, the focus is on the following triggers:
- Lack of light or other location issues
- Unsuitable substrate
- Diseases
- pests
Always choose a bright, warm location for your orchids that is not in full sun. Do not use normal potting soil, but a coarse special substrate. Check your tropical flower beauties regularly for diseases and pests. Symptoms such as leaf spots or a mealy-grey coating indicate fungal infections, for example.
Healthy roots signal the will to survive
If a distressed orchid is left without leaves, take a closer look at the roots. If the strands are still silvery-green and bulging, there is a chance that the valuable flower diva will be rescued. Water sparingly and spray the aerial roots regularly. With a bit of luck, the orchid will invest its last energies in the growth of a child. Wait until the cutting has its own leaves and aerial roots to cut off and pot.
tips
The widespread supermarket Phalaenopsis often have to pay the floral bill for the cost-saving cultivation in the fast process. After 2 years at the latest, the leaves turn yellow and fall off without new leaves sprouting. Don't throw in the towel prematurely. Provided with nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 2 weeks in a bright location, there is a good chance that the orchid will recover. During this critical time, cut off each flower promptly, as it takes too much strength.