As houseplants, orchids grow vertically, which allows the crown to collect water. This prevents the plant from being able to drain. The stagnant water that then collects in the crown is full of the pathogens which cause crown rot.
Direct sunlight also affects the roots. The soil drains and the root system becomes damaged, causing the flowers and flower buds to drop off.
If only the flowers fall off just remove the spike.
Orchid potting medium has to be well draining to remove excess water and provide enough nutrients.
If the potting medium does not meet these requirements, root rot and yellow and wilting leaves will appear.
The ideal temperature to fulfill orchid needs ranges from 55 to 75°F.
If the temperature is either lower or higher than this, it can cause changes to leaves, flowers, and flower buds.
Too much fertilizer will cause the leaves to burn and the root to become discolored.
However, if you don’t fertilize your orchid enough it will also suffer from poor growth.
The air dries out due to low humidity. The plant can’t receive enough water, so the potting soil eventually dries out and causes the roots and green leaves to shrivel.
The most common pests which affect the orchid plant are mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, and fungus gnats.
Their presence affects the leaves and roots.