subject: Caring For Orchids - 5 Warning Signs Your Orchids Are In Trouble [print this page] One of the many reasons growers are so in love with orchids is that taking care of orchids can be quite an extremely pleasing and challenging job.
Though it's simple to learn the fundamentals, effectively producing excellent orchids takes a long time to master. The plants themselves demand patience, at times requiring several years of careful tending before they will flower.
That's why orchid growers should always be on guard for warnings of problems in their plants. If you know what to look for, you will probably be able to prevent the problem before it takes out your dear orchid. But if not, all your hard work will have been for nothing. With that in mind, here are five important warning signs that your orchids are in trouble:
WARNING SIGN #1: Spotty Flowers - The flowers are without a doubt the most fragile part of your orchid. That's why they'll often be the first to notify you when there's a problem. If you see dark spots on your flowers, this could be an indication of a fungal or viral illness about to take over your plant. Small holes in the delicate petals of your blooms mean that you've got an insect problem.
WARNING SIGN #2: Discolored Leaves - While the leaves of the orchid tend to show warnings of problems less readily than flowers, they're also much easier to monitor because they're continuously there throughout all life cycles of your orchid. If you see discoloration on your leaves when caring for your orchids, then some sort of sickness is present. White scaly spots on your leaves are specifically troublesome, as this is a sign of a viral disease (notoriously hard to cure).
WARNING SIGN #3: Shoddy Roots - You'll be repotting your orchid from time to time anyway so that it can be exposed to the proper ventilation it requires to grow. When you do, do not forget to spend a few moments to examine your plant's exposed root system. The roots should appear thick and healthy. If they're discolored or brittle, or damp and malformed, you've probably got a case of root rot, which is either caused by overwatering or allowing the orchid's mixture become stagnant.
WARNING SIGN #4: Rapid Wilting - As mentioned above, the flowers are the most highly prized part of the orchid. While all parts of growing an orchid can be enjoyable, it is the lively blooms that you anticipate the most. If your blooms seem to wilt instantly after they bloom, then it's understandable to be disappointed. Not only have you diligently worked for dreary results, you've possibly got a problem with your root system as well, and the buds aren't receiving adequate nourishment. This is an excellent time to re-evaluate how you're caring for your plants.
WARNING SIGN #5: Crawly Things - Insects are a problem for any type of plant and orchids are not immune. Scale insects like to inhabit the leaves of orchids, and can be difficult to see, so make time to carefully inspect every time you water. Mealybugs and aphids are a bit simpler to see because of their horrible habit of chewing holes through leaves and flowers. Using an accepted insecticide such as malathion is recommended by the majority of growers, and organic substitutes also exist for those who choose "green" gardening.
It's always disappointing when something prevents your orchid from blooming into the best it can be. Take steps to get the most out of your plants by following these crucial tips on caring for your orchids.
