Wondering “why do orchid leaves turn yellow?” it is a sign that your orchid is not doing very well. Contrary to popular belief, growing orchids is not as difficult as people think.
In fact, the orchids they are one of the best indoor plants that will bloom for many years, but you have to give them the right conditions. Often this just means leaving them alone and not worrying too much. If your orchid is turning yellow, it is showing signs of danger – these are the most likely reasons.
too much water
This is the most common reason why your orchid’s leaves are turning yellow. Lara JewittSenior Nursery Manager at Kew Gardensexplains that “Orchids in general should only be watered when they dry and should never stand directly in water. However, they like moisture. To increase humidity, you can place them in a shallow tray with pebbles and a little water – the pebbles keep them out of direct contact with water.”
So all those videos and Instagram posts you saw of orchid roots in water bowls are a big mistake. Instead, Lara says you should «water directly into the pot and let it drain.»
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Incorrect positioning
Is your orchid growing near a drafty window? Or maybe you placed it next to a radiator? Maybe you’ve placed it in a large window to maximize the amount of light it receives. All three are completely wrong for an orchid that likes one. constant temperature without much sunlight and with fairly high ambient humidity.
Lara confirms that orchids “don’t like drafts or dry heat, so keep them away from radiators, drafty windows or the front door”. If you are seeing yellowing leaves and falling flower buds, a draft or dry air is almost certainly the reason.
incorrect fertilization
over-fertilize it’s a common mistake in growing orchids and another way to gently kill them. Lara explains that “orchids don’t need strong fertilizers”. They like frequent fertilizer applications in the summer months, but the fertilizer should always be diluted by half. If you notice that your orchid’s leaves are yellowing from the center outwardsyou are using too much fertilizer or not diluting it enough.
That said, not feeding your orchid will likely also result in yellowing or falling leaves, and no new leaves. If you’ve never fed your orchid for fear of killing it, start slowly and it should recover. Following these tips should ensure your orchid becomes the star of your indoor garden once again.
*Via GardeningEtc