Something eating Vanda flowers/damaging spikes

[FSUOrchids]

Not sure what is doing this, because I can't see anything. Could be thrips, I'm not sure...but I just had two spikes damaged badly by something. One aborted some very small buds, and the other one produces a few flowers but they came out deformed and partially open.

Any idea what this is/if there is something I could spray the spikes/buds with to prevent the issue? It seems to only happen to some of my vandas. I don't really have the issue so much with my potted orchids.

[Bud]

most Vandas form a sticky sweet substance on the tip of the forming buds and some flying insects just love to suck on them sometimes stabbing the insides of the buds to get to more nectar ....so when I notice my Vanda spiking=I bring it indoors on that precise critical period when its about to form the buds.

[AussieVanda]

The biggest problem I have is bud worm/boll worm. Occasionally locusts/grass hoppers and even cockroaches as well. I spray tau flauvinate in the trade name of mavrik.

Are you finding droppings or other secretions left behind?

[FSUOrchids]

No, it seems like it's either ants or something like thrips.

[dounoharm]

I like to spray insecticides every two weeks when plants are outside....and alternate between liquid sevin and a systemic, you can use the insecticidal soap with either one as a spreader/sticker.....unless there is a problem, then I go straight for the systemic!...sounds like thrips to me, especially with vandas....you have to follow a preventive routine if you keep plants outdoors...good luck!

[tucker85]

In Florida, the most common cause for what you are describing, is thrips. You can only see them on open white flowers. They look like a little minus sign and they move fast. On vanda buds you can't see them at all. There's an easy remedy. Get a spray bottle of Ortho Rose and Flower or Bayer Rose and Flower. They're available from Home Depot or Lowes and they're designed to be used on open flowers. When your vanda spikes are 4" to 6" long, spray the spike from about a foot away so you get a nice gentle spray. Spray from two different directions. A week later, spray again. Twice is usually enough but sometimes I spray three times. Don't spray once the buds get mature and fairly large. I've found that it can stain the petal colors of mature buds but it's very effective when used before the buds are fully formed. It works like a miracle for me. Orthene also works well but I don't like the smell of it.

[FSUOrchids]

Originally Posted by tucker85

In Florida, the most common cause for what you are describing, is thrips. You can only see them on open white flowers. They look like a little minus sign and they move fast. On vanda buds you can't see them at all. There's an easy remedy. Get a spray bottle of Ortho Rose and Flower or Bayer Rose and Flower. They're available from Home Depot or Lowes and they're designed to be used on open flowers. When your vanda spikes are 4" to 6" long, spray the spike from about a foot away so you get a nice gentle spray. Spray from two different directions. A week later, spray again. Twice is usually enough but sometimes I spray three times. Don't spray once the buds get mature and fairly large. I've found that it can stain the petal colors of mature buds but it's very effective when used before the buds are fully formed. It works like a miracle for me. Orthene also works well but I don't like the smell of it.

I've seen that in the store so I will have to go grab some.

[FSUOrchids]

I just tried this on a developing spike, I will report back on the difference this makes

[FSUOrchids]

Success, my Vanda flowered very well this time around, and no trace of anything trying to eat it. Appreciate the advice.

this is V. Gabriel Piedrahita 'Apricot Jubilee' AM/AOS

[Bud]

Beautiful terette Vanda....it must be fragrant