Please look at these leaves. Am I overwatering?

[baytownboy]

Wow!

Thank you for taking the time to examine my phal's problem. I appreciate the depth of your analyses, and your many wonderful suggestions.

I can't tell you how much I enjoy "meeting" you on this forum. You are very generous people. And I love that we love orchids.

Thank you,

Romulus

[Piper]

Hi Romulus,

I'll toss in my two cents...

Over and under-watering show the same symptoms. That's because if you're over-watering the roots rot and die, and then the plant can't absorb enough water from the potting material.

When you see the yellowing, flaccid leaf(ves), unpot the plant and check the roots. That's the fastest, surest diagnoses. Crispy dried out roots don't appear anything like slimey rotting roots.

Another possibility is a fungus. They can sweep through Phals in a matter of days, and will also cause flaccid leaves. Slower, longer term yellowing of leaves ususally means a watering problem.

Anytime you trim an orchid leaf, sprinkle some cinnamon on the cut. It's a natural fungicide. But don't get any near the roots. It retards root growth. Physan is a reliable fungicide, but take care to use it in the recommended strength and wash your hands after spraying a plant. If you suspect a fungus, you can soak the whole plant in the Physan mixture to treat the roots as well.

Okay, I'll shut up now!

McJulie