Vivi's Orchid Corner

Dear Orchid Friends:

All orchid growers (professionals, hobbyists, amateurs) experience insect or fungi infestation at one time or another no matter where you live. Diseases are caused by an invading virus, bacteria or fungus. The warm, humid conditions in South Florida are especially susceptible to the manifestation of insect invasion and fungus growth. Many readers have asked "what do I use"?

This is a difficult question to answer since so many variables may impact the answer. One "rule of thumb": remember, even experts cannot agree on which products work best. What works for one person may not be effective for another. Personal preferences also impact our choices as well as areas in which we live, growing conditions, environments, types of infestation. Do experiment with products and consider adapting a regimen which incorporates a variety of products on a rotating basis.

The following is a listing of insecticide and fungicide products available for use. All of these products are readily available at local nurseries or home & garden centers.

Important Note: All of the above listed products can be toxic and must be used with considerable caution. Follow the label directions. Protect yourself when applying any product and be wary for pets and children. Take care when using pesticides in the summer. It is best to spray in the evenings or early mornings to allow pesticides to dry on the plants before the sun is too hot and too strong. Never treat plants when they are stressed , wilted or withered. Stressed plants are sensitive to spray injury.

DO inspect your plants frequently and treat plants on first signs of problems. Consider quarantining any diseased plants. It is easier to prevent infestation than it is to eliminate them once they have established themselves. Develop a preventative treatment program that uses regular application of pesticides and fungicides.

You now have a listing of products from which to choose. Choose products that are suitable to your needs, preferences and your location. Some are more odiferous than others. With this "army of products" behind you…. Happy growing!

Vivi