phal amabilis - lower leaf turning yellow

[ladyslipper]

Hi guys, I repotted my phal amabilis about a month ago and have noticed a bottom leaf has turned yellow. Normally this is no sweat as the rest of the plant is fine and is growing a new leaf at the top. This bottom leaf is laying flat against the bark with a root ontop of it. I want to cut the old leaf back with a pair of fine point sizzers (sp?) but am leary about doing this due to the tight quarters under the next leaf up. Question is, should I let the leaf wither back then try to pull the leaf off assuming the leaf is only weakly attached to the plant? any recommendations greatfully read..thanks m

[Tony]

I would just let it die and drop off naturally. While the leaf is yellowing, the plant is absorbing all the nutrients it can, and when it is done the leaf will drop by itself. No sense risking damage to healthy roots and leaves around it.

[justatypn]

I have one that did the same, wondering myself whether to cut or leave it...opted to leave it, took only a week or two to die back without new root damage. Seems to be a regimen for phals to loose a leaf where a root is popping out.

[Lagoon]

I don't tend to let these leaves go to yellow, seems like a waste of time and energy to the plant.
Sometimes it's hard to pick a spot to cut if you have new roots popping out. So I just cut up the middle right towards the crown. You can actually begin to tear it yourself once you make the cut. Works pretty good for me.

[Tindomul]

I would treat it like you treat a loose tooth. Fiddle with it until it finally breaks off on day. In other words, leave it until its ready to fall off, or until someone comes to visit and you want to show your orchids off. Which ever comes first. Yellow leaves, how embarrassing!

[Gin]

Hi , I leave them until they come off easily .. If it's yellow let it mellow, if it's brown cut it down Gin