Yellow Leaves on Your Orchid? Here’s How to Save It

Orchids are among the most beautiful and popular houseplants. But even the healthiest ones sometimes surprise their owners with yellowing leaves.

While this may seem worrying, it’s often not as serious as it looks. Most causes are fixable once you understand what’s going on.

Orchids can develop yellow leaves for a number of reasons. One common cause is natural aging, writes Tag24.

Older leaves eventually die off as the plant grows new ones. If only one lower leaf turns yellow, this is likely the case and nothing needs to be done.

Are You Overwatering?

Another common reason is overwatering. If roots sit in soggy soil for too long, they can rot.

This often leads to soft, yellow leaves. Make sure the pot drains well and that the plant doesn’t sit in water.

Not Watering Enough?

Dryness can also be a problem. If the orchid hasn’t been watered in a while or the air is too dry, the leaves may shrivel, turn yellow, then brown.

Orchids like steady moisture but not soaking wet roots.

Light is another factor. Orchids need light to thrive, but not direct sunlight. Too much sun can burn the leaves, which often turn yellow or get brown spots.

On the other hand, too little light can also cause problems. Try to place your plant where it gets bright, indirect light.

Orchids also need the right nutrients. Too much fertilizer or minerals in tap water can hurt the plant.

A buildup of salts can damage roots and cause yellow leaves. A lack of nutrients can have the same result.

Use orchid-specific fertilizer and water with filtered or distilled water when possible.

Pests or fungal infections may also be to blame. Watch for sticky leaves, black spots, or bugs like spider mites and mealybugs.

These issues require treatment and careful cleaning.

If leaves turn yellow, don’t rush to cut them off. Only remove leaves if they’re rotten or clearly diseased.

Otherwise, let them fall off naturally. That way, the plant can still draw nutrients from them.

With the right care and attention, most orchids bounce back and thrive.