How to Save an Orchid Plant
- 1). Move the orchid out of direct sunlight if it develops dark colored spots on the leaves or stem. Orchids cannot tolerate bright sun and the black spots are actually sunburn. If the orchid is in a sunroom or near a window, moving it to another location will help it recover.
- 2). Increase watering if the leaves of the orchid appear wrinkled, as this is a sign that the plant is not getting enough water. Keep the soil of the orchid constantly moist. In addition, spray the bloom, stem and leaves of the plant with a light mist of water from a spray bottle at least once per day.
- 3). Apply an insecticide if you notice small holes in the leaves or flowers of the orchid. Common orchid pests include aphids, snails and spider mites, which all live in the moss of the orchid pot. If holes are visible in the plant, spray a liquid insecticide over the entire surface of the plant to kill the pests.
- 4). Check the orchids pot for soil. Orchids are air plants, which means that they do not need soil to grow in. Unfortunately, not everyone knows this. If the orchid pot has any soil it in, remove the soil and insert sphagnum moss, coconut husk or fir bark in its place.
