Phalaenopsis and cymbidium silvery leaves

[Araska]

Hi, lately I've noticed whiter tiny spots on my phalaenopsis and cymbidium leaves. They look like they're washed out of colour. I've looked for mites, but can't find any on the orchids. Can you help me to figure out what can it be? Maybe wrong water (too hard) or not enough nutrients?

[Ray]

Looks like a pretty extensive mite infestation.

[estación seca]

Welcome to the Orchid Board.

They're on the undersides of the leaves. Take a tissue in your hand. Start at the base of the leaf, where it connects to the plant. Press the tissue against the underside of the leaf. Press against the leaf as you move the tissue to the end of the leaf. Look for red or brown streaks.

[WaterWitchin]

Originally Posted by Ray

Looks like a pretty extensive mite infestation.

Sure does!

---------- Post added at 12:58 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:56 PM ----------

High humidity and lots of air flow will help. But first you need to get rid of the mites. I usually spray with rubbing alcohol everywhere on the plants and top of medium. Then immerse in water later or spray the heck out of them with a hose or in a shower. Then I mist or shower whole plant a couple times a week until pretty sure the mites are under control again.

To save some time, here's a quote from Estación Seca on a different thread that's spot on to assist.

Spider mites are tiny, and outside in the environment everywhere. They come into the house on animals, clothing, or even blown through screens by the wind. All plants must be watched for spider mites, especially during warm weather with low humidity.

I use 70% alcohol (rubbing alcohol) or insecticidal soap when I see them. Treat all plant surfaces and the top of the medium. A preventive method is to rinse the entire plant with plain water every 1-2 weeks. I spray all my plants every few weeks with plain water.