Broken/Split Orchid Leaves

My orchid leaf split/broken? What do I do?

Split Orchids
Some of my orchids have split leaves. They were either damaged before I got them or split from an already small tear (as shown above). They just keep growing with these splits and it does not effect any other growth. It's slightly ugly but it will have no effect on anything. The split leaf will continue to grow from the base but will always look split at the top – it will seal itself off and be kinda crooked. Don't cut if off. It will still give the orchid energy – even though its split.
 
Torn orchids
I have also had orchids that I dropped (as shown above)!! Yes dropped and broke…if this has happened to you then you know the awful feeling it causes!! I also have broken off the tiny baby leaf that was growing from the center of one my Phalaenopsis orchids… I about died.

I do a couple of things here.

  1. I cut if off using sterile scissors to prevent any type of infection right at the tear.
  2. I sprinkle cinnamon (yes the common household spice) on it because it is a natural fungicide to protect it from any potential threat.
  3. Then I leave it – as stated above, the leaf will continue to grow (however ugly) and still give the plant nutrients.

Hope that helps,

Feel free to leave questions or comments.
Hannah