9 Common Orchid Problems and Solutions

What’s wrong with your orchid? Even though Phalaenopsis orchids are easy to care for, no plant is problem-free.

Common orchid care problems are usually easy to fix by adjusting things like your watering schedule, or by moving your plant to another location with more or less light.

Troubleshoot and master these basics, and you’ll keep your indoor orchids happy and blooming.

Related reading: Phalaenopsis orchid care.

What’s wrong with your Orchid?

Here are the most common indoor orchid care problems. Continue reading for more information on each issue and solutions on how to save your orchid!

1. Orchid not growing flowers
2. Root rot on overwatered orchids
3. Flower buds dropping
4. Yellow leaves
5. Limp, wrinkled leaves
6. Plant pests
7. Humidity levels
8. Soil selection
9. Temperature changes

Orchid Not Growing Flowers

Lack of blooming? Your orchid might be craving more light. Place it where it gets bright, indirect sunlight. If natural light is scarce, consider using artificial light, especially in darker months. More light means more blooms.   

It could also just need a longer rest period. You can trigger your orchid to bloom by reducing the temperature.

Root Rot on Overwatered Orchids

Orchids dislike too much water. Make sure their pots have drainage, water sparingly, and let the top inch of the potting mix dry before the next round. Overwatering leads to root rot – the enemy of happy orchids.

Smelly or brown and black roots are a sign of rotting roots because of overwatering. Healthy roots are pale green or grey. Remove the rotting roots as soon as you notice them and adjust watering in the future.

Flower Buds Dropping Off

If buds drop off before they open, something is causing your plant stress. This is called bloom or bud blast and can have several reasons. It could be that you are watering too much or too little. Or maybe the water you are using is too cold.

Yellow Leaves

It’s not uncommon for older leaves to turn yellow, especially after flowering. If more than the occasional leaf turns yellow, it most often is due to overwatering.

It could also be a sign of too much direct sunlight. Or you are watering with water that is too cold. Adjust where needed. The yellow leaves won’t revert back to green so you can remove them or let them fall off naturally.

Limp Wrinkled Leaves

Another common leaf problem: if your orchid’s leaves are limp and wrinkled, it’s likely dehydrated. Check your watering routine. Ensure you’re providing enough water without drowning the roots. Adjust the watering schedule, and your orchid should perk up, restoring turgidity to its leaves.

Plant Pests

Aphids, scales, and spider mites can bug your orchids. Regularly check for pests, especially on the undersides of leaves. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to kick the pests out without harming your orchids.

Humidity Levels

Originally from humid jungles, orchids love moisture. Insufficient humidity can lead to poor overall growth and dehydration of the orchid’s aerial roots. Orchids often have roots that absorb moisture from the air, and when humidity is low, these roots can dry out, affecting the plant’s ability to take up water and nutrients. If your home has dry air, use a small humidifier to boost humidity.

Orchid Soil Selection

Forget regular soil – orchids need a special potting mix. Use an orchid mix with bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite for good drainage and aeration. This mimics their natural habitat and keeps roots healthy.

Temperature Changes

Orchids don’t like temperature extremes. Shield them from drafts and maintain a steady temperature between 60-80°F. Sudden changes, especially cold drafts, can stress orchids, causing problems like bud drop.

Further reading: Flowering house plants.