Yellow orchid stems: the possible causes and remedies to try
Many gardeners love to take care of their orchids so that they produce lush blooms which will elegantly decorate any room or corner of the garden. It can happen, however, that every now and then, they show some signs of stress or symptoms of something going wrong.
For example, we might get worried when we see that the stem holding the flowers is turning yellow. There are several possible causes, and the most common is excessive exposure to direct sunlight. In fact, the most commonly grown species in homes (Phalaenopsis) does not like locations that are too sunny. More often, however, it is only the natural cycle of the plant which, after flowering, loses the stem that held the flowers.
via plantophiles.com
Yellow stem due to the plant's natural cycles: no cause for concern
When the flowers have finished their blooming cycle, have dried up and fallen from the stems, it is likely that the whole stem will then turn yellow, dry up completely and will fall off by itself. If you realize that this is part of the natural cycle of the plant, you can leave it alone. Alternatively, you can cut the stem a couple of centimeters from the base (or just above the first node that is still green), because sometimes the plant will sometimes produce a new stem that will bloom in the next season. Therefore, if the leaves and roots are completely healthy, it is very likely that a yellow stem is no cause for concern.
Too much exposure to direct sunlight
Orchids are tropical plants, but their habitat is among the branches and fronds of trees, where they are sheltered. This means that they do not usually live in direct sunlight. So, when they are exposed to direct sunlight for long periods - and especially in the hottest hours of the day - the plant "burns", and the branches and stems will turn yellow and dry out.
Move them to a more sheltered spot, and always check for any other signs of stress on the leaves.
Other possible causes: watering mistakes
Too much humidity or too little water are two extremes to avoid with many plants, including orchids. If the stem turns yellow instead of having a nice healthy green appearance you are used to, check the soil:
- If it is completely dry and very light, it is time to water the orchids (then drain off any excess water, after the soil is saturated);
- If, on the other hand, the soil is too wet, suspend watering until it dries out. You may also find that the soil is too compacted and has become 'choked up' by the roots.
- If you notice signs of root rot, sterilize some shears and cut away the rotting roots, then spray 3% hydrogen peroxide on the cuts and repot the plant using completely new soil. If you want to use the same pot, sterilize it with the hydrogen peroxide for good measure.
Happy gardening!
