I was pulling orders this past Monday when I walked past my favorite plant.  It is a Phalaenopsis lindenii, mounted and happily hanging on the wall.  This specific "favorite" plant has many siblings surrounding it (close to 100 of them), all of them sending out new root growth.   

 

My favorite plant, however, is by far the largest, strongest-growing plant of the group.  It will, most likely, bloom well before it's brothers and sisters.  Yet it has not been purchased by a browsing customer, nor have I picked it for an order.  Why?  Well, my favorite plant happens to have a tear in it's largest leaf.  Although it is the grandest and most vigorous plant in the bunch, it is not the prettiest.  Thus it remains in our greenhouse, growing steadily.  This "ugly duckling" of a plant has thus become the "favorite," and I am anxiously awaiting it's maturity so that it will repay my tender loving care with some beautiful flowers.

 

Orchids react to their environment.  Black spots can appear when the plant gets too much sun, or when overwatered.  A greyish-yellow color appears on the backs of the leaves when spider mites decide to take residence and chow down.  If a plant is dropped or tips over, a split or tear in a leaf can occur.  Old leaves can turn yellow, then fall off after repotting or when new growth takes over.  Fungus spots occur when heat and humidity are high during the summer months. 

 

All of these things affect the appearance of our orchid collection.  These blemishes, in most cases, will never go away, just like the freckles and age spots that keep appearing all over Greg's body.  When (if ) I get old, I expect the same thing might happen to me. 

 

We must learn to read these 'signs' that our plants are exhibiting, and adjust their care accordingly.  But we must also appreciate the fact that there are no perfect plants.  A brown spot or yellow fleck here or there is not the end of the world.  Rather, look at the new, fresh green growth and new roots.  A spot on an old leaf is simply a reminder of an event in the plant's past that may not have been ideal.

 

When choosing a new plant, look mainly at the new growth.  Both the new leaves and roots should be healthy and strong.  If it has one old pseudobulb on the back that is shriveled, that's OK as long as the new growth looks healthy.  If, however, the new leaves have spots, or are any color other than green, the plant is telling you that something is wrong and that it is time to take corrective action. 

 

Insects usually go to the fresh, tender new growth, as does fungus, mold and black rot.  By watching the newly developing leaves and roots of our orchids, we can tell if they are healthy or, conversely, in need of insecticide, miticide or fungicide. 

 

But also, learn to appreciate the black spot on that old growth of your favorite plant.  It helps to make it what it is--unique!  Consider it a battle wound, or just a reminder that nothing in this world is perfect.  Appreciate the beauty of your orchid collection - warts and all!

 

Happy Growing,

Liese