Worldwide Orchids :

     Dealing with pests (insects and diseases) can be among the most frustrating things for an orchid grower.  Your goal as a grower should always be prevention more than cure.  Here are a few tips that can help you avoid problems or assist you if pests do become an issue.

The best way to deal with a pest problem is to avoid it or catch it early through regular observation of the plants and proper hygiene. Instruct customers to keep the area around their plants clean and dry. Keep plants off of the ground where possible. Make sure any plant trimming is performed with sterile tools. Check plants regularly for signs of insect or disease problems such as holes in the plant leaves or yellowing mushy leaves.

2.  Determine the severity of the problem.

The customer can identify the pest by asking his local garden center associate for assistance. In many stores such as Home Depot and Frank's Nursery,  pest identification charts from companies such as Ortho are posted.

There are many methods for fighting insect problems that are available in most garden centers. These range from simple soap and water to environmentally friendly insecticides to traditional chemicals. The best approach is to try the least intrusive methods first and then step up the attack if the first methods prove unsuccessful. below are a series of insect control methods starting from the simplest and most environmentally friendly to the most harsh:

A. Soap and Water.

Simple dish detergent such as Dawn may be applied at the rate of 1 tsp per quart of water. First, pre-moisten the plant with water. Remove old dried leaves and dried brac surrounding the psuedobulbs. Moisten a soft cloth with the soapy water and gently clean the top and undersides of the leaves. Also wash off pseudobulbs with the mixture. remember to support the leaf with your hand on he opposite side from that being washed and always wash parallel with leaf veins - never across the leaf. This procedure can be safely applied every other week or until the pest situation has been cleaned up.

This product can be found in the swimming pool department of many stores. Mix D.E. with water at a rate of one pound per gallon of water. It is very good for controlling worms, ants, snails and slugs. Apply as a spray after a normal watering. Note, D.E. is a very fine powder, make sure that you do not inhale the dust.

When using this or any other insecticide, the most important rule is to follow the directions on the label. Never apply during the heat of the day. Apply in the morning or late afternoon. Shake well. Cover all plant surfaces with spray, especially under the leaves. Repeat every 5-7 days.

See above rules for chemical application. This is a pyrethrum, a natural insecticide made from chrysanthemum flowers. Shake well. Turn the nozzle to the spray position. Hold the sprayer 18" to 24" from the foliage. Use caution on new growths. Repeat weekly or as needed. Can be used indoors or out.

See above rules for chemical application. Spray 2-3 times at an interval of 7 to 10 days. Only use this product outdoors.

F.  Thiomyl Fungicide

Fungicide is used to control such problems as stemrot, crown rot and root rot (botrytis, fusarium and rhizoctonia).  Again, these problems can be minimized first and foremost through proper hygiene and watering control.  When plants sit in unclean areas or are allowed to lay wet, they are most susceptible to fungal diseased.  Areas of high humidity and temperature are also prime candidates for such diseases.  Combat these problems with increased air movement and careful watering controls.  Fungal problems can be identified by spots on flowers and by yellow mushy leaves.  When using Thiomyl, be sure to follow the directions on the label.  to apply as a drench, thoroughly  mix 1 tablespoon (3 tsp. =1 Tbs.) per gallon of water.  Apply to the potting media.  Repeat in 21 to 28 days for added protection.  Its best to apply this and other chemicals in the morning and on clear days.

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Last modified: Friday September 07, 2007.