Dew Drops on Bud? - Orchid Board

Connie Star · #1 03-10-2010, 08:42 PM

I have an Otaara 'Island Flare' that is reblooming for me

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I've noticed drops forming on the tip of the bud, and also at the node. They are sticking and sweet, and seem to reappear when I wipe them off. What could they be?

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Izzie · #2 03-10-2010, 08:58 PM

Could it be the same as the similar phenomenon in peony buds? I've had (nectar?) drops similar to that on my epi. buds.

Claire25 · #3 03-10-2010, 10:25 PM

It's sap...I think the pressure of fluid within certain growing points of the orchid causes these sap droplets to be forced out while the plant grows. Several of my Cattleyas have this happening to them now, at the base of their buds and newest leaves.

My personal hypothesis is that the presence of such sugar-laden sap at the tenderest growing points of the plant serves a useful purpose in nature: to attract ants, which may protect the plant from orchid-munching insect pests. It seems that I may have read this somewhere; anyway, it makes sense to me!

Izzie · #4 03-10-2010, 10:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Claire25

My personal hypothesis is that the presence of such sugar-laden sap at the tenderest growing points of the plant serves a useful purpose in nature: to attract ants, which may protect the plant from orchid-munching insect pests. It seems that I may have read this somewhere; anyway, it makes sense to me!

As far as Peonies go- you're absolutely right! Peonies thrive with ants to help open their buds.

Becky15349 · #5 03-10-2010, 11:07 PM

Happy sap! Nothing to be concerned about

Connie Star · #6 03-11-2010, 03:08 PM

Thanks all, it's a relief to know it is good news and not bad. I'm a newbie who posts a lot, hence the "senior member" designation.

Hedge · #7 03-11-2010, 05:56 PM

Hi Connie,

It's called honeydew, and it may attract aphids, which then attract the ants who "farm" the aphids for food. A lot of people think that ants damage plants because they see them and not the aphids who are the actual sap sucking little blighters

- just keep an eye out for them. Other than that it is said to be a sign of good growing.

Regards
Heather