Are There Special Pesticides For Orchids?

Pests and disease are common problems that orchid cultivators often experience. The most common types of orchids diseases are bacterial diseases, viral diseases, and fungal diseases. Some common orchid pests include, mites, scale insects, aphids, mealybugs, caterpillars, slaters, cockroaches, slugs and snails, whiteflies, ants, and dendrobium beetle among a host of others.

Types of pesticides:

There is a fair number of chemical pesticides available to orchid cultivators on the market. These chemical pesticides are effective against pests and diseases. Certain chemical pesticides dictate that a pest must be sprayed directly to be effective - these are known as contact poisons. Certain pesticides are effective only after the insect consumes them - they are known as stomach poisons. There are even certain pesticides which are ingested by the plants and then moved all through the plant so that for example, mealybugs feeding on the roots will be killed by the pesticide that was sprayed onto the leaves. This type of poison is referred to as systemics. Some pesticides have a fumigant action by which the vapor of the chemical enters the insect's breathing tubes and kills the insect. Chemical pesticides are highly specialized. It is very important to identify the accurate pest or disease, so you can choose the most effective chemical.

Which pesticide to use?

Pesticides available for sale vary with time. It is recommended that the user should use only those pesticides available at the local garden centre, as those pesticides are registered for use by home users. Users should not buy pesticides in other states that are not registered in the ACT nor should they get small jars of any pesticide from a registered nurseryman. The use of these chemicals in the ACT by home growers is against the law as well as hazardous.

How to use pesticides on orchids:

Chemical pesticides should always be mixed and applied according to the manufacturer's instructions. It is also a good idea to wear long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, rubber gloves, and shoes when working with pesticides. The pesticide should be applied in a manner that delivers a even coverage on the orchids, especially the undersurface of the leaves. Minimize the amount of pesticide that gets on you. Avoid spraying the orchids with pesticides during a hot summer day, as these chemicals tend to damage the orchids during this period of time. Make sure to wash all the equipment used to mix and spray pesticide carefully after use. Also, wash yourself thoroughly after applying the pesticide and before eating, drinking, or smoking. Wash the clothes you wore during the application of the pesticide immediately.

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