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Orchid Leaf Growing Through Other Leaf

9 years ago

I'm hoping someone can help me with my orchid question.

I've had this orchid for approximately 4 years. It's always been healthy, from what I can tell. I've only ever had one, so I'm definitely a novice. As you can see in the photos I took this morning, I have a newly formed leave growing straight through an existing leaf. When this new leaf first began to form about 2 or three weeks ago, I was very excited! And then I noticed it was growing through that existing leaf and kind of freaked out! My questions are:

1. Is this new leaf going to damage/destroy the existing leaf? So far the large existing leaf seems to be fine. However, wouldn't it slowly rip a larger opening as it grows?

2. Is there anything I should do to prevent this from happening again in the future? I'm vigilant with my houseplants, and they bring me a lot of joy. I really don't want to mess up this gorgeous orchid!

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

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Comments (5)

vtandrea
9 years ago
That has happened with some of my oncidiums. It doesn't seem to "hurt" the orchid any and I don't think there's much you can do to guide leaf growth.
mrhayseed thanked vtandrea
westoh Z6
9 years ago
I would try to 'gently' reverse it out of the other leaf. Be careful and do it slowly, maybe even over a couple of days.

Good luck,

Bob
mrhayseed thanked westoh Z6
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mrhayseed
Original Author
9 years ago
Thank you, vtandrea, I appreciate your comment
mrhayseed
Original Author
9 years ago
Thank you, westoh Z6, I might try that, but the newly formed leaf is very rigid and I don't think I could get it to budge without damaging the large leaf.
susanZ9B
9 years ago
That is something I have never seen before. I would gently pull it out so the new leaf can flourish. The larger leaf will heal itself and I would not worry about it. As new growth forms I always clear the way a little if needed by wiring up over hanging leaves or clearing out the potting medium. It is a very nice and healthy looking plant and I'm sure no damage will come from removing it from the older leaf. Enjoy your spring! Susan

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