What is this & can I fix it?

[Sassismom]

Or at least stop the spread of it.

Well I wanted to attach a picture, but don't know how, so I'll try to explain, it's a round sunken patch in the middle of my phal. leaf.

[Sassismom]

Oh I guess I figured it out, ha ha.

[PhalPal]

The general rules are: if it is hard to the touch it could be fungal, if it is soft and gooey it is probably bacterial. I don't mess around; I would cut it off about an inch below the spot and put cinnamon on the cut line. I also use a cinnamon spray that is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal to use on the entire plant. I would isolate this one plant until you are sure the plant is healthy; bacteria spread mostly by contact. Make sure it has good air circulation and light. You will more than likely get differing opinions on this one, but I will always error on the side of caution. I cut now - ask questions later!

One more thing....don't forget to sterilize whatever you use to cut the leaf. You don't want to spread whatever it is to another plant later on.

[Sassismom]

Thanks, that's what I was thinking of doing, but I always want a second opinion...I'm a big chicken.

[janet_a]

hmm, how long has it been there? if it turns yellow, i vote for sunburn. however, if the plant is big and healthy, just whack the leaf off and dust the cut. no need to take chances.

[patlee]

It's not sunburn. I had the exact same thing on a sale plant I picked up. It will spread,too. I tried Bayer 3 in 1, but even that did not stop the spread I finally cut off the leaf and used cinnamon and peroxide. One lower leaf turned yellow naturally. So all I have left is one good leaf, but it is finally growing a new leaf and getting new roots. Don't take chances. Cut the leaf--it is already turning yellow in your picture and that is just the start. BTW, I've been wrong before, but I wouldn't chance it...

[Sassismom]

Ok, all chopped and dusted.