Why Orchid Leaves Twist & Curl and How to Fix Them

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When I was watering one of my orchids this morning, I noticed the leaf was bunched together, like it had been twisted. It wasn’t flimsy or limp, but sturdy and otherwise healthy.
This curled orchid leaf was bothering me since I saw no exterior sign of pests or insects.
What are some of the culprits to curling and twisting of the orchid leaf?
The main reason orchid leaves curl is because the orchid leaf follows the light source when it grows. If the light source constantly changes, the orchid leaf will curl and twist, turning toward the brightest light. Another reason orchid leaves curl is the potting medium is loose, causing an unstable rooting system. Fungus problems and insects are the third and fourth culprits in why the orchid leaf curls and twists.
Let’s look at these four reasons one by one. At the end of the article, I'll add 2 more reasons that may be occurring, but less likely. I hesitated to add them to the list, but decided to anyway since just because they're less likely to occur, doesn't mean they don't. So... on to the 6 reasons of why orchid leaves curl.
If you want the full explanation of this video in writing, go to orchideria.com/orchid-leaf-curl/
On Orchideria.com, you can find more in-depth guides and all the access to our information, tutorials, guides, and much more... all for free!
Happy Cultivating!
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By no means do I consider myself an expert but I'm an avid learner and willing to share the little I know with others. There are thousands of different ways to care for orchids, and the more we share, the more we learn.
What started out as a hobby has now grown into a passion, producing an online resource of quality information on how to connect with nature.
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12 июл 2024

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Комментарии : 54

@joyilie5424 9 месяцев назад

I tried everything with my curled leaf. Nothing worked. I stumbled across a Taiwan lab growers website and there was a whitepaper that was published and posted by them that said when all else fails, its a nitrogen deficiency. It suggested feeding 200ppm of only nitrogen, then fertilizer (not going past 270ppm) every 2 weeks for 2 months and it not only stopped the curling on the new portion of the leaf, but it completely fixed the entire leaf. Now I feed mine with a total solution of 270ppm (200 for minis) every 2 weeks and they all look amazing. The color and glossiness is nothing like I had before. I love your videos. Thanks for showing so much stuff!

@FloridaGardeningdiva Год назад

My kids have been giving me orchids on holidays. I just learned a lot. I love these beautiful plants

@davemorrison7803 6 месяцев назад

Great info! Thanks for keeping it simple.

@maryfigueiredo5768 Год назад

Thanks so much!!! I enjoy your videos 😊

@mortenlund8387 2 месяца назад

Great video! Love how you explain things; it’s clear and to the point👌🏻 And great editing as well 💪🏻😊

@tattooedbeauty3201 Год назад

Looked up this video and within the first few seconds found my answer. I've moved her too much lol. Thank you

@EdsOrchids 3 года назад

Very positive information....this type of information is more often than not overlooked. Thank you for the video which i am sure will prove to be of help to many old and new growers. Take care, Ed.

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Ed, Thank you for watching and leaving a comment. It is such an honor to read since I learn so much from your videos, too.

@rociogramajo8184 Год назад

Awesome video! I brought home an orchid and after a week one of its leaves started to curl. I though something might be wrong with the lighting so I moved it to another part of the house and then almost all the leaves got curled T_T. Thanks to your explanation now I know that probably it's due to all the changes. Truly grateful!

@aliceparsons6854 3 месяца назад

Thank you for this video. I finally got a grocery store orchid to survive and to rebloom, and they are beautiful and strong. But, their leaves are very angled/curled. It's most likely due to the light, but it seems like it's also just how the orchid wants to grow. I have been turning the plant slightly when I bring it back to the table after watering, and that has helped, but this one seems to like having their leaves angled. I wanted to make sure that I wasn't hurting or neglecting them, and your video really helped.

@lisascenic Год назад

Thank you for this fascinating video! Is there any way to definitively identify snd treat the fungus you discussed?

@michellecarini8382 3 года назад

I have one phal that has had a combined effect. Wrapped in plastic, as you mentioned, as well as improper watering while at the store. This resulted in total root loss. She’s currently in rehab with bark mix and a decent top layer of sphagnum moss that I keep moist, but not soggy. I refuse to give up on her ♥️ Thank you for the helpful and informative video!

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Michelle, Thank you for your comment. I wish you the best with this orchid. It sounds like it has a good chance. :)

@suzisaintjames Месяц назад

Do you have a video or short on how to clean pots for reuse... Especially after a sick plant has died. 💖🌞🌵😷

@gma904 11 месяцев назад

Thank you! I looked under the leaf and there was this dried hard “scab” along the middle of the stem like something (or things) had chewed possibly but I soak my plants when I water weekly so they’re probably long gone and none of the other leaves have any symptoms.

@desertroseJAXX 3 года назад

Thanks so much for your informative videos. When soaking orchids, can I use the same water for several orchids or do I have to change the water for each orchid?

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Geri, I wouldn't recommend doing that (even though that is what I do... oops.) It's too easy for 1 bacterial infection to spread since water is a viable means of transmission. If you have one orchid that is sick and use the same water to soak every orchid, that bacterial infection will spread to each orchid you soak. I use this method because it saves time but make sure --absolutely sure-- that there are no infections of any kind. I say bacteria, but this also applies to fungus and viral infections too. Any type of ailment that one single orchid has can easily be transferred to other pots and soon, the whole orchid collection is lost.

@1amSam 3 года назад

Great video thank you! I think one of my orchids does have a fungus sadly. Can you make more videos about other types of orchids like your lady slipper or cattleya I have phalanopsis, cattleya, oncidium, dendrobium, vanda, and cymbidium and would love to hear more about those and how I can give them the best care possible

@1amSam 3 года назад

I do have a question about my orchid with possible fungus. It is growing new roots, does this mean it is still ok and trying to survive or is it most likely going to die anyways?

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Sam! I will add those topics to my list to make videos about. Thank you for the suggestion. I appreciate it. 🙏

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Sam, If the orchid is growing new roots it's fighting to survive. There are different fungicides on the market that work well. I'd repot since the fungus probably came in due to the potting media that is deteriorating. There is a chance this orchid will survive since the roots are actively growing.

@1amSam 3 года назад

@@Orchideria thanks for replying! I repotted the orchid a few months ago, should I still repot I use lica pebbles and water with room temperature RO water Anything you can think of that I should change?

@michellee.8075 Год назад

What a finicky plant

@tara_27244 3 года назад

I have a new phal which I received from a local nursery recently (it’s young but it’s mature enough to have its first spike about 3-4” long - has not formed the buds yet) what I noticed is the top leaf while it looks very healthy it grew upright from the crown then around half it’s length it turned to grow toward the opposite side/half of the crown and therefore the leafs underside is on the top now - so that leaf is “upside down” if that makes sense. I’ve never seen this before. My best guess it happened either because of the sun/light direction (it is a wavy leaf) and/or possibly to make room for the spike as it’s coming up from underneath the second leaf on the same side of the upside down leaf, but the spike pushed it’s way between the top leaf and the second one, which caused the top leaf to bend over the other way rather than cover it. It’s really puzzling me ;). But so far it looks healthy. I just wasn’t sure if the light hitting the under side of that particular top leaf may cause it harm in the long run….

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Tara, Poor leaf is confused... The spike growth shouldn't make the leaf turn that way. It sounds more like the plant was wrapped in plastic or some other protective layer for transport and it just stayed that way. It could be some other reason, too, just like you mentioned. As for the light, I wouldn't be too worried because it will produce natural sunscreen by itself, called anthocyanin. These are reddish-purple dots like freckles. Over time the leaf will adjust to its environment to better protect itself from the sun. I'm worried though that it's not bending back to its normal position even after this time. This makes me think there might not be enough calcium, and the plant cells are weak. Try adding cal-mag or some other product for a month or 2. That should give the orchid the boost its needs to flip back the right way.

@tara_27244 3 года назад

@@Orchideria ah thanks for explaining the anthocyanin as spf that’s a helpful comparison. I’m not sure if it was ever wrapped in transport in its history; I live within 75 mins driving distance so it was not wrapped or boxed for transport during delivery to me (benefits of shopping local). Could be wrong, but I believe the nursery themselves produced this plant as it’s labelled on their site as their own nursery’s hybrid (btw it’s a Phal Samera) whether it was done on site or bred elsewhere would be a mystery. I am building a rapport with them as that was my first purchase so I might ask them about its origin and that odd leaf at some point if it doesn’t correct itself. I could try the cal mag and see if helps, but at the moment that spike is now in the path the leaf would take to flip upright then over so I may have to wait until the spike is long enough to tie and stake it out of the way to clear the path for the leaf to correct itself. I’ve only had it since June 11 so it’s not been that long. I’m curious how the next leaf would form from the crown considering this is the newest top most leaf. I suppose after blooming season I’ll have to pay close attn for the new leaf growth and help it along as best I can and only intervene if needed.

@tara_27244 3 года назад

@@Orchideria I’m making progress with the confused leaf ;). I spoke with the nursery and sent them a picture. I’ve been Using a soft string to gently tie the leaf using a stake (aka chopsticks) and it’s slowly bending back the right way. I also pointed the leaf in the direction of the sun for some added incentive for it to move in the right way. I adjusted the stick ans string position a little more today and it’s not resisting. In fact, there’s even a new leaf sprouting at the crown (I can actually see the crown now lol) so that growth should help to push it back on its own side too ;) I figure in another few weeks it should be back to normal.

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Tara, Yeah!!! Slow and steady... The leaf might not ever turn fully, but it should shift a few degrees. The new leaf is easier to "persuade" to the direction we want it to grow.

@bettapalfish9057 3 года назад

I found this very informative. I have a mini Phalaenopsis that likes to lean in her pot. Like you I cannot grow outside. She is on my windowsill. Do you place the leaves toward the outside or the inside? This leaning thing is new to me. How do you keep the new roots growing which is now the top into the media? Help

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Bettapal, I keep the top of the leaves facing the most light possible. The underside of the leaf will easily turn purple if turned toward the highest light. As for the roots, unfortunately, they will mostly become aerial. Sometimes I go ahead and place them on a mount so they can lean better and this keeps the pot from falling over.

@bettapalfish9057 3 года назад

Thanks for your prompt advise. Luckily I have two new roots growing into the pot on the leaning side which will anchor. Thanks for the mount advise will do.

@Shiki707 Год назад

I have 2 orchid plants, both kept in the exact same environment, same about of sunlight and water.. however one of them is really healthy looking, the leaves are really big and straight, but the other one the leaves are small and curled up like straws - how do I fix it?

@leecollins9112 3 года назад

Hi Amanda do you let strong growing moth orchid flower twice or cut back to base to let them rest and concentrate on leave growth and wait for when they want to spike again. My nodes have got growth and tempted try have second bloom there a lot for and against second bloom what you think

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Lee, I usually wait and see if the spike will start to turn brown. If it does (and I am repotting), then I cut it back because that's what it's going to do naturally. If I'm not going to repot the orchid, then I just leave it alone. Phalaenopsis have a higher tendency to bloom 2x and if the spike is well and healthy, they usually do. If I see the roots and leaves are struggling, I'll cut it back even though the spike is doing good, because I'd prefer a strong healthy root system that lasts for 2+ years than flowers that will just last one season.

@leecollins9112 3 года назад

Amanda I done a different way and it worked good for me. I re potted when plants was in full bloom as I feel when they have good strength I had 7 to re pot. Did not like orchid grow more bark for what I could get so got reptile bark working well and a lot cheaper. Ive cut back to healthy node once 3 to 4 flowers started wilt again so stems not weak 4 of 7 have been cut with good node spikes rest still in good bloom. All have nice shiny green leaves and all roots from plants are very good. I gave 2 crashed eggs shell to each plant and started feeding 2 weeks before changed pots to give them a boost feeding of grow more 3 out of 4 weeks 4 week just water 5 week give them liquid tomato feed. I feed to the little spoon but a bit less as feel they get feed when they want out of 3 weeks. I will cut right back 2 just see what happens to them. Finding 5 to 6 days want watering at moment. You are the bible when comes to orchids but just like try different way try see what they want.

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Lee, That is excellent! The best orchid care is what works for you and your growing conditions. I've never tried reptile bark. I'll look into that! Thank you for the comment and the suggestion! I appreciate it. 🙏

@terrystunesnance1547 3 года назад

I have one that's doing this...ive had it for over a yr. Now its the first one ever. But its the" keiki" and not the mother plant. Should i take it off the mother plant? It is a baisl keiki forgive my spelling. So im not sure how to take it off without damaging to the mother. Also the mother plant has never been out of bloom and has great roots but never a new leaf...she has put out a 3rd spike so i cut of the second that she has had thru the winter. I think she may bloom to death plus is still supporting the keiki. Your opinion would be greatly appreciated. Always loving your vids!! Oh and all mine are in simi W.C. no bugs.

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Terrys tunes Nance, It seems like you have an overachiever for an orchid! I'd leave the keiki alone since it is basal. Those are extremely hard to remove without hurting the whole stem. As for it producing so many keikis, it might be too much of a certain nutrient, (I think it's too much phosphorous, but I have to check). If it's not producing new leaves nor roots, then there is an imbalance in the fertilizer. What fertilizer do you use?

@terrystunesnance1547 3 года назад

@@Orchideria 20-14-13 better grow...i use it once every other week and after its mixed i water it down again....it may still be to much tho...

@kathleenfoley6025 7 месяцев назад

I did not get how to fix a curling leave. I know how to prevent it, but how do I fix a curling leaf? It has been about a year now.

@msjacky0612 3 года назад

I have leaves that grow side ways and realise its keiki, I plan to remove it from mother plant but decided not to touch it as its not one but two keiki and i got scared I might harm them.. so i end up repotting them. But as soon i repot them some roots turn black 🙈. I don’t know what i did wrong 😔

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Ms Jacky, With a keiki growing on the base of the orchid, it's best not to remove it since it could harm the mother plant. Some are easy to twist off, but most aren't. If it were a keiki on the flower spike, that would be different. So you did the right thing by leaving it. The main reasons for the roots turning black could be overwatering & overfertilizing. The new roots aren't accustomed to being in the new media and often die off. If your keiki is big enough, it will survive with just the leaves until new roots sprout. If they are still very small, they might have a hard time adjusting. It all depends on the orchid, too. Orchids have a mind of their own.

@msjacky0612 3 года назад

@@Orchideria thank you so much.. I’ve watched your video about barks. And I think it answers why the roots turn black instantly. I didn’t washed the barks and all the dust stick to the roots 🙈🙈

@emiliomartinez6067 2 года назад

Would a virus also cause the leaves to severely warp?

@Orchideria 2 года назад

Hi Emílio, That is a good question and I really don't know. I'll have to look into it before I really answer.

@annazelenyj5034 3 года назад

I will not do that thi g with banana put on leave they look bad and I have one that does not bloom at all why

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Anna, I can't give specific reason for why an orchid won't bloom because there are so many reasons. It all depends on the orchid, too. Some of the most common reasons are that there needs to be a temperature drop at night of about 10-15 degrees. There also are many fertilizers that will induce blooms, while others will just induce root growth. Try to find a fertilizer with a higher phosphorous (the 2nd number in the NPK) and that may help.

@millielopez10 3 года назад

my husband found one and even though i don't know anything about them I tried to save it started growing 2 leaves 1 of them is curled I'm stuck

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi MML, I wish I could help more... It's hard to know what to do with pictures and my anti-spam is programmed to auto delete comments with pictures. Can you describe the way the leaf is curled? Is it scrunched up or twisted?

@millielopez10 3 года назад

@@Orchideria curled

@victorb145 3 года назад

I noticed something about the video itself. And that is for some reason your videos not mine or other people's but yours the picture tends to pause and the audio keeps going after several seconds the video will just snap into correction and everything will be fine until it does the whole thing again. I did notice the video quality kept moving around I wonder if maybe that's the signal coming to my phone causing that. I don't know has anybody else noticed the pausing of the video in particular? I'm sure the shifting quality is the fact that my phone is set on auto so it's constantly shifting around trying to get the best picture depending on what the RU-vidr put out but I'm not used to the picture just pausing completely for periods of time.

@Orchideria 3 года назад

Hi Victor, Thanks for mentioning this. I'll be curious to know what is showing on other people's devices.

@victorb145 3 года назад

@@Orchideria Me too like I said mostly the passing of the video but not the audio. I'm sure the other is just my phone dealing with an ever-changing signal.