Epidendrum roots under attack

[lais817]

Hi guys, I've got an epi. Nocturnum division without pretty much anything in the way of a root system, and it has just started putting out some bid fat healthy looking roots. The other day though, I noticed the largest root had the green tip missing, then the remaining white part was all shrivelled like it had been sucked out. Today the other larger root (about 3/4" or so long) had the same problem and so does a little root 'nub'.

What is attacking my orchid!?! it's just getting two spikes on it, so I'd really like it to have some roots.

I've applied a systemic fungicide and insecticide to it, not sure it it's done anything or not, there is one root nub left with a green tip. I've been fertilising weekly and it's growing in medium-large pine bark chips and watered appropriately

[lais817]

bump

[Ray]

Sounds like insects (roaches can decimate roots) or slugs/snails.

[orchidsamore]

My vote is roaches although there are some other insects that can do the same.

Orthene if you can get the water soluble type rather than the dust or b-cyfluthrin in liquid form are effective sprays. I can find b-cyfluthrin liquid at Ace Hardware

Orthene in powder form is OK for pots but for air roots you need the liquid.

[lais817]

Originally Posted by Ray

Sounds like insects (roaches can decimate roots) or slugs/snails.

It'd be roaches then, no slugs or snails here, plus the plants are suspended. Thanks for the info mate

Originally Posted by orchidsamore

My vote is roaches although there are some other insects that can do the same.

Orthene if you can get the water soluble type rather than the dust or b-cyfluthrin in liquid form are effective sprays. I can find b-cyfluthrin liquid at Ace Hardware

Orthene in powder form is OK for pots but for air roots you need the liquid.

I'll try get some Orthene today then, thanks heaps!