What is happening to my buds???

[Jmarvin]

I apologize in advance, because as a newbie to orchids, I dont know the name of this beauty. I bought it over 18 months ago in bloom. It has been hanging under a Laurel Oak since and seems quite happy. I noticed my first earned bud about 2 weeks ago. It has been growing steadily. Upon today's inspection, I was horrified to see that all of the buds appear to be turning brown. I have no idea what could be the problem. It's hot down here in SW FL, but that was never a problem before. Any and all advise would be extremely appreciated (including the name of this orchid!!).
Many thanks all.

[bethmarie]

Your plant is a Vanda. They like a lot a lot of light and a lot of water when they're growing and yours looks pretty happy. From the look of the buds, I'd say insect damage, maybe mites, but I don't grow outside and I don't grow Vandas, so it's a guess.
Others with more outdoor experience will weigh in and help you out.

[estación seca]

Vandas in Florida are susceptible to thrips damage, and it looks like this. Next time spray just the spike as it emerges and develops.

[Jmarvin]

Spray with what exactly? Can this spike be saved?

[estación seca]

I haven't had them. Use the Search feature in the maroon menu at the top to search on Thrips. Also go to the Motes Orchids Web site and subscribe to their monthly growing newsletter. They specialize in Vandas.

Your flowers will probably open, but will be damaged.

[Jmarvin]

Well, unfortunately, over the last 4 days, the spike has completely turned brown and dried. Heartbreaking to lose the flower. At this point, I'm most concerned with making sure the plant survives. Questions for the crowd: Should I cut the spike off now, and if so, how far down? I have read about a soap solution to soak the whole plant in to remove any insects. Does anyone know the formula? Should I treat all of orchids in my collection (all are outside)? Again, thanks so much for the advise.

[estación seca]

Yes, you can cut off brown spikes. Phalaenopsis and a few other orchids may rebloom, but only from green spikes. Vandas don't rebloom from spikes.

As Motes makes clear, thrips are everywhere in Florida, so there's no point treating everything. They will be back the next day. All your orchids and all the trees and shrubs outside probably have them. They don't cause much trouble other than emerging spikes.

From my reading spraying just the spike at 1-week intervals from emergence to flowering works well.

You can buy insecticidal soap at garden centers and hydroponics shops. Use it according to directions. You can also put 1 teaspoon / 5ml to 1 tablespoon / 15ml of liquid dish detergent into a quart / liter of water, and spray or soak with that for a couple of hours.