Troubleshooting
Thick Gongora problems — and how to fix them
Thick Gongora (Gongora grossa) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Pseudobulb shrivelling
Shrivelled pseudobulbs indicate either underwatering or root loss (which prevents water uptake even when the medium is moist). Check roots — healthy roots are white-green and firm. If roots have rotted, remove dead material, treat with fungicide, and repot in fresh bark.
No flowers produced
Gongora grossa requires a pronounced cool, dry winter rest (2–4 weeks at 13–15°C with reduced watering) to initiate flowering. Without this seasonal cue, plants remain vegetative. Also ensure light levels are adequate throughout the year.
Scale insects
Brown, shell-like bumps on pseudobulbs or the undersides of leaves are scale. Treat with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab for light infestations, or apply systemic insecticide. Inspect newly acquired plants carefully before introducing them to a collection.
Prevent thick gongora problems before they start
Most thick gongora issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Thick Gongora problems — FAQ
Why is my thick gongora pseudobulb shrivelling?
Shrivelled pseudobulbs indicate either underwatering or root loss (which prevents water uptake even when the medium is moist). Check roots — healthy roots are white-green and firm. If roots have rotted, remove dead material, treat with fungicide, and repot in fresh bark.
Why is my thick gongora no flowers produced?
Gongora grossa requires a pronounced cool, dry winter rest (2–4 weeks at 13–15°C with reduced watering) to initiate flowering. Without this seasonal cue, plants remain vegetative. Also ensure light levels are adequate throughout the year.
Why is my thick gongora scale insects?
Brown, shell-like bumps on pseudobulbs or the undersides of leaves are scale. Treat with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab for light infestations, or apply systemic insecticide. Inspect newly acquired plants carefully before introducing them to a collection.