The larvae feed on the leaves and develop on stems and pseudobulbs. The injury allows for the entrance of decays. Infested plants fail to bloom. Thrips cause browning and blotching of the leaves and blasting of flower buds. The leaves and flowers will have a silvery appearance, then turn brown.
Slugs feed on buds, blossoms, leaves, and tender stems.
Aphids suck plant juices and are usually found at the stem tips. A heavy infestation will coat the leaves with sticky honeydew. A black, sooty mold can grow on the honeydew. The insects can be green, white, pink or black. Scales are usually brown, hard shells attached to the stems or undersides of the leaves.