Are the green leaves of your orchid turning into yellow leaves? This is obviously not the intention when your orchid is in your home. The orchid is an easy-to-care-for houseplant, yet there are a number of reasons why the leaves of the orchid can turn yellow.
In this blog, our cultivation experts explain why your orchid gets yellow leaves and give tips on what you can do to care for your orchid without it getting yellow leaves.
Why is my orchid getting yellow leaves?
An orchid with yellow leaves is caused by several factors.
- Your orchid is in direct light
Are the green leaves turning yellow? This is a sign that your orchid might be in the wrong spot. Keep in mind that orchids do not want to be placed in direct sunlight. Such as in a window frame where the sun shines continuously. Direct sunlight causes orchid leaves to turn yellow and burn. Move your orchid to a bright spot or place it in a window frame where the sun does not shine directly.
- Too much water
Are you wondering: ‘Why are my orchid’s leaves turning yellow?’ There is a good chance the orchid is getting too much water. This can happen because the orchid has stood in water for too long during watering. The roots of the orchid get too much water and start to rot, resulting in the orchid getting yellow leaves. When watering, make sure the orchid’s plastic nursery pot stays in the water for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes of immersion, remove it from the water and let it drain well before putting the orchid back in the decorative pot. Want more care tips for your orchid? On our care page, you can read the best tips from our cultivation experts to enjoy your orchid for months.
Please note: make sure you do not immerse your orchid in ice-cold water and do not place an ice cube near the orchid. The orchid is a tropical plant and does not like ice-cold water.
Orchid develops yellow leaves | what to do with yellow orchid leaves
We now know two reasons why an orchid can get yellow leaves. But what if you want to care for your orchid with yellow leaves? Our cultivation experts recommend removing the yellow leaves. These leaves are so affected that they are easy to remove by pulling lightly. Not working? Then pull the leaf gently while holding the heart of the orchid. This prevents you from pulling the orchid out of the nursery pot. The orchid has now lost its yellow leaf. After this, you can care for the orchid again as described on our care page.
Is your orchid really beyond saving? Maybe it’s time to consider something new. In our webshop, you will find a wide range of beautiful orchids – from striking eye-catchers to elegant, subtle varieties. Who knows, you might discover exactly that specimen that gives your interior that little bit extra. Feel free to take a look and be inspired by the versatile choices!
Do you have questions about the care of your orchid? Then you can always contact us. We are happy to help you enjoy your orchid for as long as possible.

