What to do if orchid pseudobulbs wilt (what causes orchid stems to dry up and shrivel)

Functions and effects of orchid pseudobulbs

In fact, the so-called pseudobulb refers to a bulb that is ovoid or spherical in shape, but in fact it is a solid modified stem.

It has a better function of storing water and nutrients, and is also a storage tissue that adapts to special living environments where it is difficult to ensure a regular supply of water and nutrients.

The green pseudobulb can also photosynthesize. The pseudobulb is usually nodeless, that is, it contains only one internode, with leaves growing on the top, and rarely has two to several nodes, with leaves growing on the nodes.

Pseudobubles are usually connected by rhizomes, which are what we usually call the "roads" connecting orchid seedlings.

Reasons for the drying up of orchid pseudobulbs

The growth and development of orchids cannot be separated from water and nutrients. If the planting material of orchids is too dry or too wet, it is not conducive to the growth of orchid pseudobulbs.

Too dry can easily cause the pseudobulbs to dry out due to lack of water, while too wet can easily cause the pseudobulbs to be infected by pathogens , and eventually dry up or die due to the disease. This is also an issue that needs special attention in the process of orchid cultivation.

When orchids are infected with "two rots", the pseudobulbs will also dry up and wither.

Especially when orchids suffer from stem rot, the internal tissue of the pseudobulb is destroyed by fungal invasion, causing dehydration and rot. As the pathogen becomes more severe, the pseudobulb will slowly rot and become water-soaked.

Therefore, during the hot summer season, ventilation and sterilization should be done to prevent the massive reproduction of harmful bacteria.

In short, the daily management of orchid pseudobulbs does not require specific conditions. The key lies in the moisture retention and light control of the orchid pot.

When the temperature is below 25°C, you can expose it to the sun. When the temperature exceeds 25°C, the orchid should be placed in a cool place.

The planting material in the pot should be kept moist to prevent it from being too dry. In dry weather, the surface of the orchid pot should be sprayed to keep it moist.

Especially when the pseudobulbs are sprouting leaf buds and flower buds, more attention should be paid to keeping the surrounding planting materials moist to avoid excessive dryness which will affect the germination of the buds .