Insects Aphids, scale, mealybugs, thrips and spider mites are a few of the insects that attack orchids. Talk with local orchid growers to learn how to identify these insects and their symptoms. New growth and buds are common attack points. Understand the insects' life cycles and apply repeated doses of a control to eliminate all phases. Soft, cottony mealybugs on this new paphiopedilum growth will deform the leaves.
Prompt action is necessary to eliminate the insects.
Photograph by Stephen R. Batchelor. Diseases Fungi and bacteria injure orchids. A warm and humid environment with inadequate ventilation creates the perfect atmosphere in which fungi and bacteria thrive, causing soft spots, sunken areas on leaves, root rot and other ailments. Inadequate air circulation and damp conditions can induce Botrytis cinera , which ruins flowers with its fine speckling. Photograph by Harry C. Burnett.