More leaves problems - Orchid Board

Mervin · #1 10-16-2011, 05:50 AM

Is this Virus ????? :?

Eyebabe · #2 10-16-2011, 09:58 AM

The only way to know for sure is to test it.

If the plant is generally healthy and has not been exposed irregularly to bright sun then I would test.

Phal grower · #3 10-16-2011, 10:19 AM

I have a plant that looks like that and I was wondering the same thing. When reusing cutting tools is it ok to dip in isopropyl alcohol to kill any virus?

tucker85 · #4 10-16-2011, 10:19 AM

I wouldn't worry about it unless you want to spend the money to test it. The plant looks healthy for the most part. The new leaf is larger and looks good. I've seen that blotchy yellow on some of my plants but If the new growth looks good I'm not concerned. Alway sterilize your cutting tools after cutting a plant because orchids with viruses don't always have symtoms.

Eyebabe · #5 10-16-2011, 11:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Phal grower

I have a plant that looks like that and I was wondering the same thing. When reusing cutting tools is it ok to dip in isopropyl alcohol to kill any virus?

Isopropyl Alcohol does not kill plant viruses.

The protocols that I have read claim that either cleaning with 10% (or more) bleach solution or flaming your instruments will both kill plant virus.

Eyebabe · #6 10-16-2011, 11:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tucker85

I wouldn't worry about it unless you want to spend the money to test it. The plant looks healthy for the most part. The new leaf is larger and looks good. I've seen that blotchy yellow on some of my plants but If the new growth looks good I'm not concerned. Alway sterilize your cutting tools after cutting a plant because orchids with viruses don't always have symtoms.

Good point!

The only reason to run a test is if you are willing to take an action based on the result.

For example, if you have back pain but would be unwilling to have surgery on a ruptured disc or would refuse any treatment of malignancy etc...then there is no reason to do an MRI or any other diagnostic study.

If you have a plant that is otherwise growing well and would keep it despite having a positive virus test; if you would have no way or desire to isolate a positive plant to protect your other plants....then why test it?

Phal grower · #7 10-16-2011, 11:47 AM

Thanks eyebabe. I just learned something new.

Bud · #8 10-16-2011, 04:28 PM

You have a good plant...the new leaf is big and very green...the plant gave it it's full energy that the other leaves got very little...hence they are smaller, not elongated and have a yellow tinge...otherwise, the plant is telling you that it had a traumatic experience before....now it is relaxed and used to the space and will adapt to the change and flourish!

ezil · #9 10-18-2011, 12:54 AM

Bleach and flames are great for sterilizing. but sometimes it seems like a pain to have to wait. I now use x-acto knives, and snap the blade off after every cut. The $store type is fine for this, low cost and it doesn't stink up the apartment!

Eyebabe · #10 10-18-2011, 08:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ezil

Bleach and flames are great for sterilizing. but sometimes it seems like a pain to have to wait. I now use x-acto knives, and snap the blade off after every cut. The $store type is fine for this, low cost and it doesn't stink up the apartment!

Agreed! Rest assured I have my disposable blades handy.

Although I must say my flame gun is just about as quick