Phal leaves splitting...?

[NewGrower]

Hello all!

I noticed one of my recovering Phals leaf had split once it first came out a few inches... I figured it wasnt a big deal but yesterday at Lowes I noticed a lot of the sale orchids several had splitting leaves (including one of the onces I purchased). My question is, what causes that and is it a bad sign?

Thanks!

[NewGrower]

BUMP! I want to make sure its not something I am doing wrong...I have this feeling it might be caused from the heat (because the plants at Lowes had just been moved from the AC to the outdoors)

[iluvorchids]

I have 2 of mine that have split leaves. I'd like to know as well.

[NewGrower]

Are your plants outside or inside? I am thinking it might have to do with the heat because I know Phals dont like to get TOO hot! But I am not sure! Hopefully its not something worse!

[denite25]

mine are kept inside i keep them around 80 in the day and 70 at night and i have the same issue.......but other than that they seem very happy

[iluvorchids]

Mine are also inside by an east window. Otherwise growing fine.

[bearded orchid]

This is a common occurrence in house plants. Splitting happens when a plant is allowed to become too dry and then is subsequently overwatered. The plant cells cannot handle the sudden influx of water resulting in several bursting. This in-turn causes the leaf tissue to tear because of deviations in cellular integrity - similar to a bridge collapsing from compromised support trusses. Phalaenopsis split down the middle seam because that is the weakest point on their leaf (where both halves are fused together.) You cannot repair it but the plant should be fine, provided there are no infections before the edges heal.