When an orchid is finished flowering, it is normal for these spikes to turn brown. Flowering expends a tremendous amount of the plant’s energy. By sacrificing its flower spike, an orchid allows itself to rest.
One more inquiry we ran across in our research was “Why are my orchid flowers falling off before flowering?”.
Orchid Flowers Falling Off Before Blooming While it’s natural for your orchid’s flowers to drop once the blooming period is over, it’s not natural for the flowers to fall before they even bloom. This is often referred to as “bud blast” and can occur for a variety of reasons.
What causes brown spots on Orchid leaves?
A number of Leaf Spot diseases produce muted spots that resemble those of fungal rust. Brown spots and speckling on leaves may be due to incorrect p. H and the lack, or overdose, of specific nutrients. Residual salts in the soil from excess fertilizer can affect roots and lead to spotting symptoms. Pest infestations may cause mottled spotting.
Next, here are a few ways you can help prevent future fungal and bacterial outbreaks: Provide constant, yet gentle air movement. Point a fan away from your orchids, and turn the fan to the lowest setting. Water in the morning. This way any water accumulation on the leaves will dry before nightfall. Use care to keep water off the leaves and flowers. Keep paper towels on hand to absorb water that accumulates in the crown of the plant.
You may be wondering “Why do orchid leaves have black spots?”
There are many others, but not as widely known and accessible to the public. Black spots on orchid leaves are a direct result of a bacterial infection caused by Acidovorax (syn. Pseudomonas), known as Bacterial Brown Spot. The spots start off as brown smudges, minuscule in size and appear waterlogged. When pressed, the leaf will ooze sappy liquid.
Why do orchid flowers grow in different colors?
Orchid flowers grow in specific shapes and colors to attract particular pollinators. Some of these flowers grow in bright colors to mimic the nectar-holding flowers of other plants so that butterflies and birds will reach into their petals.
What causes bud blast in orchids?
Bud blast can also occur from extreme temperature fluctuations, such as drafts from open windows, air conditioning, heat vents or even the oven. Being indoors all winter, then being set outside in the spring can be stressful enough to an orchid to cause bud blast.