What to Do When the Leaves of Dream Orchid Turn Yellow
The yellowing of Dream Orchid leaves is a common issue in the maintenance process, which not only affects the ornamental value but also serves as a health warning from the plant. This article deeply analyzes the causes of yellow leaves from aspects such as environmental control and water and fertilizer management, and provides operational solutions to help you quickly restore the vitality of the plant.
I. Improper Watering Causes Yellow Leaves
1.1 Symptoms of Waterlogging Damage
Fleshy roots are extremely sensitive to waterlogging, initially showing yellowing and wilting at the leaf tips, and in severe cases, the entire plant's leaves turn yellow and become waterlogged. Long-term waterlogging can lead to root rot, accompanied by white mold spots appearing on the surface of the substrate.
1.2 Scientific Water Control Solutions
Adopt the "Three-Check Watering Method": check the potting soil (insert a bamboo stake to test the moisture at 2cm deep), check the weather (延长 watering intervals during rainy days), and check the season (reduce water demand by 30% in winter). If waterlogging is found, immediately elevate the bottom of the pot and use the siphon method to remove excess water.
II. Techniques for Adjusting Air Humidity
2.1 Dry Environment Warning
When the air humidity is less than 40%, yellow spots with a burnt edge appear on the leaf margins, and new leaves curl and deform. Special attention is needed during the heating period in the north, and a hygrometer can provide more accurate data.
2.2 Triple Protection for Humidification
It is recommended to use the "Outer Pot Humidification Method": fill the outer container with ceramsite and add water, placing the inner pot above the ceramsite layer. Combine this with spraying the back of the leaves in the morning and evening (using a misting spray bottle), and placing a water tray next to the plant can increase local humidity by 15%.
III. Scientific Fertilization and Maintenance Methods
3.1 Identification of Deficiency Symptoms
Lack of nitrogen causes uniform yellowing of old leaves, while insufficient iron leads to loss of green between the veins of new leaves. It is recommended to use a special slow-release fertilizer for orchids (N-P-K=20-20-20) every month, combined with chelated iron foliar fertilizer applied every two weeks.
3.2 Fertilization Operation Standards
Follow the "One-Quarter Principle": dilute the indicated amount by 4 times before use. Pour the fertilizer solution around the edge of the pot, and after fertilizing, flush thoroughly with water within 6 hours to prevent salt accumulation. Apply additional fertilizer every 20 days during the growing seasons of spring and autumn, and stop fertilizing during the dormant periods of winter and summer.
Through systematic analysis, it can be seen that the yellowing of Dream Orchid leaves requires multi-dimensional regulation from the environment, water, and fertilizer. It is recommended to regularly conduct plant health checks and establish maintenance logs to record temperature and humidity data. Address early yellowing symptoms promptly, and use tools such as pH test pens and EC value testers to achieve precise maintenance.