Moon Orchid with Manganese Deficiency? Rare but Treatable
Phalaenopsis amabilis
Manganese deficiency is a nutritional disorder that causes interveinal chlorosis in younger leaves, creating a distinctive chequered pattern. Unlike magnesium deficiency which affects older leaves first, manganese deficiency appears in new growth at the top of the plant. It is most common in poorly drained soils, high organic matter conditions, and soils with pH above 6.5.
ð Symptoms
- âĒ Interveinal chlorosis with smallest veins remaining green (chequered pattern)
- âĒ Yellowing starts in younger leaves at top of plant
- âĒ Brown spots may appear on leaf surfaces
- âĒ Severely affected leaves turn brown and wither
- âĒ Leaf curling in severe cases
- âĒ Stunted growth
- âĒ Small necrotic spots if deficiency persists
â Possible Causes
- â Soil pH above 6.5 (alkaline conditions)
- â Poorly drained or waterlogged soils
- â High organic matter levels
- â Coarse soil texture
- â Cold soil temperatures
- â Excessive phosphorus or iron in soil
- â Sandy soils with low manganese content
ð Treatment
Quick Fixes
Step 1
Apply manganese sulfate (MnSO4) as foliar spray at 0.5-1% solution
Step 2
Spray early morning or late evening to prevent leaf burn
Step 3
Repeat foliar application every 7-10 days for 3 weeks
Step 4
Apply chelated manganese (Mn-EDTA) to soil around root zone
Step 5
Water thoroughly after soil application
Organic Treatment
Step 1
Apply organic manganese sources like composted manure or kelp meal to soil
Step 2
Use manganese-rich amendments such as greensand (0.2% Mn) or granite dust
Step 3
Apply organic foliar spray with diluted kelp extract weekly for 3-4 weeks
Step 4
Incorporate well-aged compost with manganese-accumulating plants
Step 5
Adjust soil pH naturally using elemental sulfur if needed (target 5.5-6.5)
ðĄïļ Prevention
- â Maintain soil pH between 5.5-6.5 for optimal manganese availability
- â Improve soil drainage to prevent waterlogging
- â Avoid over-liming soils
- â Regular soil testing to monitor manganese levels
- â Use balanced fertilizers containing micronutrients
- â Improve soil structure with appropriate organic amendments
- â Monitor younger leaves regularly for early detection
ðą Care Guide: Moon Orchid
ð§ How to Water
Water thoroughly when the potting medium is nearly dry, typically every 7-10 days. Use room temperature water and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. Reduce watering in winter.
âïļ Lighting
Place in bright, indirect light - an east or west-facing window is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight which can burn the leaves. In winter, supplemental artificial light can encourage blooming.
ðŠī Ideal Soil
Use a well-draining orchid mix consisting of bark chips, perlite, and sphagnum moss. The pH should be slightly acidic (5.5-6.5). Never use regular potting soil as it retains too much moisture.