What's eating my catasetum fimbriatum?

Catasetum fimbriatum is a vigorous deciduous orchid grown indoors or in warm greenhouses. Scale insects are the most common threat, lurking on pseudobulbs during dormancy. Mealybugs colonize leaf bases, and aphids target soft new growth in spring. Check plants carefully when re-watering after dry rest.

Hard brown or grey bumps fixed to pseudobulbs and stems; honeydew and black sooty mold on surfaces below Remove manually with alcohol-soaked cotton; treat with horticultural oil; inspect monthly during dormancy

Fluffy white wax masses in tight crevices; leaves yellow and growth weakens Apply 70% isopropyl alcohol with cotton swabs directly on colonies; follow with neem oil or insecticidal soap spray

Clusters of soft green or black insects on emerging shoots and flower spikes; distorted tender growth Knock off with a strong water spray; treat with insecticidal soap; introduce beneficial predators like lacewing larvae in greenhouse settings