Question
What should I do with my orchards now?  I went to Melbourne for the weekend and my orchards were outside in the full sun in 40 degree Centigrade heat.  The leaves are burn and I would like to know how to care for them so that I don't lose the plants. Can you please help me and tell me how I should look after them now so I can save them.  thank you Marie

Answer
Marie, while your plant's leaves are unsightly due to the sunburn, as long as the pseudobulbs are healthy and firm they will grow nice new green leaves.  The plant should shortly enter a new growth phase. Pseudobulbs have tiny "eyes" at the base of the pseudobulb from which new growth will spring.  If you haven't repotted your plant in a couple of years, when the new growth starts I recommend that you repot it in fresh orchid potting mix.  Water and fertilize heavily after new growth starts.  For now, move to a shady location.  When new growth starts, you may gradually move the plant to brighter and brighter locations.  Some of the burned leaves may fall or you may choose to remove some.  Leaves that are badly burned contribute nothing to the plant.