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Orchid will not retain water

Discussion in 'Issues, Disease and Pests' started by TyS., Jul 12, 2020.

  1. Jul 12, 2020 #1
    TyS.

    TyS. New Member

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    Hello, my mother gave me one of her orchids (of course it was one that isn’t doing very well). I’m new to orchid keeping and I am having a hard time hydrating this one. The leaves look very dry and have been for awhile. I soak the roots in water for a few hours and they of course swell up but then quickly shrivel up and the leaves never look lush and healthy. Do I just need to soak it more frequently?
     

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  2. Jul 13, 2020 #2
    KellyW

    KellyW Orchid wonk Staff Member Supporting Member

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    Your plant is very dehydrated, as you stated. The good news is that you have at least one viable root. You said that you soak the roots in water for a few hours but you didn't say how often you do that. You may need to do that every 3-4 days for a while to get the plant rehydrated. Also, place it in shade. I see it is on a window sill which is fine if it is a north window. Phalaenopsis do not want bright light.

    Since it is in a clear pot liner can you see other roots subsurface? If not then you should remove it from the pot and inspect what is going on down in the bark.

    Give us some more info and hopefully we can help you.
    Good luck.