This Round Goes to the Mealybugs :(

[james mickelso]

Most mealy bug infestations come from the potting mix in new arrivals. Potting them in new media was a good idea. Keeping the orchids too wet is also good for the mealies. Not for your orchids. When you get the Bayer 3-1 put some dishsoap in the mix. About two or three drops per spray bottle. If the 3-1 comes ready to use put in three or four drops. This soap cuts the surface tension of the spray which makes it much more effective. This will help it get down into all the hidden places. Mealies are tough and it will take a couple of applications. Also check for any ants as ants herd mealies like cattle. And very young mealies have been known to hitch a ride on the breezes that come through open windows. They go right through screens. Look around outside and you might find a tree or bush with an infestation. Good luck. As long as the numer of mealies is kept low they won't hurt your orchids too much. They're more of a nuisance. They hide down in the junction of the leaves with the pbulb.

[orchidsarefun]

well I have a Miltonia in bloom and I found a couple of mealybugs in the blooms. This is almost a YEAR after I thought I got rid of them, and when the plant last bloomed.
I went for systemic insecticide granules and can at least see that the plant is now clear...
I think we have to fight against the life-cycle and systemic is the only way to go.