Summer Heat Will Stress Phalaenopsis Orchids, Part 1 Of 2

Phalaenopsis orchids are known for being hardy and forgiving plants. They are the perfect plant to own for those who have never had the pleasure of owning a beautiful orchid. As the summer months continue, however, orchid owners are reminded to take special care of their precious orchids so that they do not suffer from heat stress, which can cause significant damage or even death to the orchid.

Orchids Prefer Cooler Environments

Phalaenopsis orchids are considered to be sensitive plants when it comes to being exposed to warm temperatures. Like many of us, these orchids prefer cooler, shadier environments instead of basking in the mid-day sun. Too much sun or heat can cause heat stress.

Heat Stress and Your Orchid

When heat stress occurs in orchids there is an imbalance in how the moisture evaporates from the plant. This imbalance causes too much evaporation to occur in comparison to how much moisture is being absorbed through the orchid’s roots, which in turn causes the orchid to become dehydrated.

As with people, once dehydration occurs, you can expect to see a systematic failure of the plant to ensue.

Signs that your Phalaenopsis orchid is suffering from heat stress:

• Leaves that are warm to the touch are an indication that a plant is overheated. This can occur even if a plant is in the shade. The orchid will need to be moved to a new location where there is less sunlight and more airflow.
• Withering leaves will occur if a Phalaenopsis orchid has become overheated. It should be noted that withering leaves can also occur for other reasons as well, but if the orchid has been exposed to hot temperatures, don’t be surprised to find withered leaves.

We will continue our list of signs that your Phalaenopsis orchid is suffering from heat stress in our next post.