How to remedy the soft leaves of spider orchid
As a common indoor leaf-viewing plant, spider orchid leaves are weak and the most common abnormal condition during maintenance. This phenomenon often implies a decline in root vitality or an imbalance in the growth environment. This article will systematically analyze the causes through four core dimensions and provide actionable solutions. 1. Scientifically regulate water supply 1. Harm of imbalance between dry and wet soil Over-moisture can lead to suffocation and rot of the root system, which is manifested by the fact that the bottom leaves are soft and then withered; while long-term water shortage will cause leaf cells to lose water and contract, and new and old leaves will droop synchronously. It is recommended to judge by bamboo stick testing method: insert the bamboo stick into 2/3 of the pot soil, and water can be done without soil adhesion after pulling out. 2. Precise watering strategy In spring and autumn, we follow the principle of "seeing dry, seeing wet". In summer, we avoid watering at high temperatures at noon, and in winter, we use warm water to slowly soak along the basin wall. Special reminder: Using pottery pots requires 20% more watering frequency than plastic pots. 2. Soil matrix optimization plan 1. Harms of hardened soil For plants that have not been changed in pots for three years, the soil aggregate structure is seriously damaged, the surface is whitened, watering penetration becomes slow, etc., which directly affects the development of capillary roots. 2. The soil mixing improvement plan is prepared according to the ratio of perlite: humus: vermiculite: 3:5:2, and 5% bone meal is added every two years when changing pots in spring. After changing pots, place them in a cool place to slow down for two weeks, spraying to maintain air humidity during this period. 3. Light intensity gradient management 1. Signs of lack of light: chlorosis of leaves, lengthening of leaf spacing, and narrow and thin new leaves are typical manifestations of lack of light. However, pay attention to distinguish it from fertilizer damage: fertilizer damage is often accompanied by scorching leaf tips. 2. Dynamic light regulation Use sunshade nets to filter 30% of light in spring and summer, and remove and accept full sun in autumn and winter. It is recommended to replenish light on the north-facing window sill: LED plant lights are 40cm away from the leaf surface and illuminate for 4 hours a day. 4. Nutrient supply cycle management 1. During the growth period (April to September), nitrogen deficiency is characterized by yellowing of old leaves, and potassium deficiency causes curling of leaf margins. Fertilization during dormant period can easily cause fertilizer damage, which is manifested by sudden large-scale wilting of leaves. 2. The precise fertilization plan uses water-soluble fertilizer with N-P-K=20-10-20, applies 1200 times liquid fertilizer every 15 days from April to June, and changes to potassium dihydrogen phosphate to enhance resistance from July to September. Pay attention to water dripping from the drainage holes 6 hours after fertilization.
By systematically adjusting the four elements of water, soil, light and fertilizer, and regularly observing changes in leaf hardness, plant vitality can usually be restored in 2-3 weeks. It is recommended to use a hygrometer to measure soil moisture content every month, and use an EC value detector to grasp soil fertility status every quarter to achieve precise maintenance.