Leaf discoloration: Could this be from bugs? - Orchid Board

Reeses · #1 04-16-2015, 09:54 PM

I noticed some discoloration on my NOID onc. when watering today. I hadn't noticed it before. It looks almost like the leaves have dehydrated on the discolored areas. I am a bit concerned, because I wound up having to get rid of a seedling zygo a few weeks ago due to some sort of small bug in the media. They were buried way in there, and I didn't see any wings, but I suppose it's possible they hitchhiked somehow?

Also, I don't know if it matters, but I suspect it is a Tsiku Marguerite, based on the blooms. Or at least something very similar to that. It is potted in a clay pot with sphagnum broken up by LECA.

What do you all think? Bugs? Or something else?

Leaf discoloration: Could this be from bugs?-img_0289-jpg

Leaf discoloration: Could this be from bugs?-img_0290-jpg

Leaf discoloration: Could this be from bugs?-img_0291-jpg

(I am so sorry the pics keep turning up sideways--I have yet to find an effective way to fix this except for saving multiple files of the same picture on my computer)

bethmarie · #2 04-17-2015, 12:11 AM

Looks like possible mite damage. Grab a magnifying glass- I use 10x, you might get by with lower- and have a good look at the leaves.

LizB88 · #3 04-17-2015, 12:41 AM

I agree with Beth it looks like mite damage.

DMT · #4 04-17-2015, 01:41 AM

I agree also, I was going to ask what the small white dots on the first pic. Onc are susceptible to leaf spots. It could have come from one parent.

Reeses · #5 04-17-2015, 01:27 PM

Nooooo not mites!! How do you all propose I treat this? I have neem oil, but my understanding was that is more preventive. I've heard Bayer Rose works well?

Thanks for your help!

bethmarie · #6 04-17-2015, 09:12 PM

I have more experience with mites than I ever wanted, but I'm still learning. First Ray's has a product --Sucrashield-- that is safe and effective on most populations. The latest mite infestation in my collection was the last straw, though. I elected to go the nuclear route and sprayed all with Avid and Tetrasan. My DNA is probably mutating as I type, but I couldn't take another protracted battle with those tiny, evil creatures.

Reeses · #7 04-19-2015, 11:18 PM

sorry you have had so much trouble with those little buggers! This is my first battle with them and I am determined to win. I will check out Sucrashield--thanks for the suggestion!