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Major scale and mealy problem

Discussion in 'General Chat' started by NicoleJS, Aug 12, 2016.

  1. Aug 12, 2016 #1
    NicoleJS

    NicoleJS New Member

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    A number of my catts and oncidiums have mealy bug and or scale. I have been treating with isopropyl and several differnt sprays but they just keep coming back. Amazing how they sap the life out of a plant. Interestingly none of the paphs get infected - is that usual? Perhaps I should divest myself of Catts an stic to Paphs - any thoughts or advice???
     
  2. Aug 12, 2016 #2
    carl

    carl Active Member

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    Paphs get it too. Keep you eye on them. Depending on the size of your collection, you may need to go for a systemic. In the mean time, what ever you are using to treat your plants, treat them all, and be careful to soak every surface. (Remove old, dried out sheaths on the pseudobulbs, they hide under there.)
     
  3. Aug 12, 2016 #3
    Ray

    Ray Orchid Iconoclast Supporting Member

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    I agree with Carl.

    The problem is that they can live in little nooks and crannies, and even on the roots, so your topical treatments are virtually worthless. Also be aware that most insecticides only kill adults.

    There are two systemic insecticides in my "go-to, big-guns" arsenal, acephate and imidicloprid. Get one of them, mix it up to the manufacturer's directions, and treat three times at one week intervals, each time thoroughly wetting all plant surfaces and saturating the potting medium.