Question
Hello, my phal leaf is falling off and i don't know why.  I have inspected the roots for rot and i can't seem to find any.  It is getting plenty of water.  The temperature i a little cooler than prime, and it could be getting more light.  i aviod getting water in the crown (i lost 2 leaves already on this plant from that).

The leaf is looking limp and leathery.

What might me causing this and what can i do to help save the leaf and prevent this from happining again in the future?

If the phal looses it's second last leaf will it be able to survive with just one?  it is in full bloom right now and i would really like to see healthy leaves...

Thanks
Alex

Answer
Alex, I'm not sure what is causing the leaf drop.  Usually, this indicates root rot.  You say you have checked the roots and they are firm and healthy. I also assume you have checked the plant for sucking insects such as mealy bugs or scale that can sap a plant of its energy. It wouldn't hurt to due a preventative spraying with insecticidal soap first thing in the  morning so it will dry by evening.

Given the weakened state of the plant which depends upon healthy leaves to grow stronger, I would remove the flower spike.  When a plant is flowering, it puts a great deal of energy into the flowering process.  That energy is then not available for new growth.  I have brought plants back with only one leaf as long there is healthy apical meristematic tissue in the area of the crown. If you have had crown rot due to getting water in the crown, this would be a risk factor in recovery of the plant since there is no tissue from which to generate new growth.

If you water the plant, due it first thing in the morning and only once per week to help keep the plant from dehydrating. You are aware that, if the plant survives, it will take many months before you will know-- as evidenced by the start of new a new leaf.  Keep it in an east window with plent of humidity and temps between 65 - 80 degrees F.