Cattleya problem?

[jctusa]

Can anyone identify what condition I have on my Cattelya leaves and if I need to take some kind of action. In general the plant seems to be doing well, with good root growth and new leaves. It did bud over the winter, but I think the lack of light caused the bud to turn black.
The leaves have looked like this for some time (more than a year), but like I mentioned earlier, thanks to Orchidgeeks, I regained enthusiasm.

John

[norris]

Hi jctusa, I wish I could help you more, but all I can do is guess that perhaps it has a fungal or bacterial infection. Overall the plant looks healthy, though its dark green color might indicate that it needs more light.

[norris]

You mentioned that they have been like that for a year, perhaps it's where it got sunburned at one time.

[jctusa]

Norris, you could be right about the sunburing. Before I got orchid savee (), I would put them outdoors and let the sunshine.

[norris]

Hopefully that is all it is, and hopefully someone with more knowledge about Cattleya orchids will be on here soon to help you. I only have one, and I just got it about 6 months ago, so I'm learning myself.

[janet_a]

i'm thinking sunburn, too...

[evagentry]

If it has been like that for a while and isn't spreading I wouldn't worry about it.

[Peter T]

The leaves on this plant do look rather dark which could be due to low light levels. If this is the case they would be more susceptible to sun damage. Cattleyas can take a surprising amount of sun light but need to be introduced to it on a gradual basis. Can I also suggest that you support your growths in a more upright position, this will eventually allow the blooms, when they appear, to be shown off to much better advantage. Peter T

[phalaephila]

Yes, I also believe the old damage to be sunburn. Don't let this prevent you from finding more light for this plant, just do it gradually! With more light will come the blooms.

jeanne

[jerrymeola]

I wish the orchids I bought from the wholesalers looked so good.

The second photo is physical damage from being handled hard and the third is sunburn.

The cure for both is a pair of scissors. You do not have to cut them off but you can on a plant that big. All commercial dealers would cut it in order to sell it easier. I must have cut 20 worst than that getting ready for Saturday's show.

[jctusa]

Thanks for looking at my post and leaving feedback. How lucky are all us novice GEEKS to be able to ask questions and seek opinions from these knowledgable GEEKS. Not sure if it was PHALPALor another member, but they said that this group was their best book. I totally aggree.

John