What's eating my encyclia cochleata?

Encyclia cochleata, the cockleshell orchid, is most troubled by scale insects, which readily colonise its hard pseudobulbs and leathery leaves. Spider mites can attack in dry conditions, and mealybugs shelter at pseudobulb bases. Slugs and snails may chew new growth when the plant is kept in a cool greenhouse.

Hard brown or tan oval bumps on pseudobulbs, stems, and leaf undersides; yellowing leaves and weakened flowering Scrape off with a soft toothbrush; swab with isopropyl alcohol; apply horticultural oil spray and repeat bi-weekly until clear.

Fine stippling and pale webbing on leathery leaf surfaces; leaves lose their glossy sheen in severe attacks Increase humidity and air movement; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil weekly for three to four weeks.

Cottony white deposits sheltering at pseudobulb bases and roots; honeydew and sooty mould follow Remove with isopropyl-alcohol swab; drench root zone with diluted neem oil; repeat every ten days.

Chewed or ragged notches in new leaves and flower buds, especially in humid greenhouse environments Handpick at night; apply iron phosphate pellets near pots; use copper tape barriers around staging or benches.