Read about the Little Known Signs Your Orchid is Getting Too Much Sun. Spot these early warning clues before your plant gets damaged.
Orchids are beautiful, delicate plants that brighten up any home. But they can be tricky to care for, especially when it comes to sunlight. Many people think orchids need a lot of direct sun to bloom, but that’s not true. In fact, too much sunlight can harm your orchid.
If you’re not sure whether your orchid is getting too much sun, here are some little-known signs to watch for. Catching these early can help you save your plant and keep it healthy.
Little-Known Signs Your Orchid Is Getting Too Much Sun
1. Leaves Turn Yellow with a Reddish Tint
When orchids get too much sun, their green leaves can start turning yellow. Sometimes, the yellow leaves will also develop a reddish or purplish tint. This is your orchid’s way of saying, “I’m sunburned!”
If you notice this happening, move your orchid to a spot with bright but indirect light. A sheer curtain over the window can help protect your plant from harsh rays.
2. Leaves Feel Hot to the Touch
If you gently touch your orchid’s leaves and they feel hot or warmer than normal, this is a warning sign. Leaves should feel cool or room temperature, not heated up.
Hot leaves usually mean your orchid is sitting in direct sunlight for too long during the day.
3. Brown or Crispy Patches on the Leaves
Sunburn on orchids often looks like brown spots, dry patches, or crispy edges on the leaves. These spots won’t heal, but trimming off the damaged parts can help your orchid focus on new, healthy growth.
Try to adjust your plant’s location to avoid further damage.
4. Wrinkled or Thin Leaves
Orchids normally have plump, smooth leaves that hold water. If your orchid is getting too much sun, the leaves may start to wrinkle or become thinner. This happens because the plant loses moisture faster when it’s exposed to hot sunlight.
Even if you water regularly, too much sun will dry out the leaves. Moving your orchid to a cooler, shadier spot is the best solution.
5. Flower Buds Fall Off Early
If your orchid is about to bloom but suddenly drops its buds, too much sun could be the cause. Orchids don’t like stress, and extra heat or bright light can cause their buds to fall before they even open.
Keep your blooming orchid in a bright area but away from direct sunlight to enjoy long-lasting flowers.
6. Roots Look Dry or Burnt
Orchid roots are usually plump and green or silvery when healthy. But if they’re exposed to too much light, especially in transparent pots, they may start to look dry, brittle, or burnt.
If you notice this, move your orchid out of the direct sun and check the roots regularly to keep them healthy.
7. Growth Slows Down
An orchid that gets too much sun might stop growing. If you haven’t seen new leaves, roots, or flowers for a long time, check if sunlight is the problem. Orchids grow best with bright, indirect light, not direct rays.
