What's eating my long spider orchid?

Long Spider Orchid (Brassia longissima) is susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs, which are the most common pests on epiphytic orchids kept indoors. The long, strap-like leaves provide ample feeding surface for mites. Scale can also colonize pseudobulbs. Good airflow, moderate humidity around 55%, and regular wiping of foliage are key preventive steps.

Pale stippling running along leaf length; fine webbing under leaves in heavy infestations; leaves yellow and dry out. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth, increase humidity, and spray insecticidal soap or neem oil on all surfaces every 5–7 days.

White waxy cottony clusters at the base of leaves and along pseudobulbs; honeydew deposits and sooty mold. Remove with an alcohol-soaked cotton swab, then spray neem oil weekly for four to six weeks.

Flat or raised brown bumps fixed on pseudobulbs and leaf bases; weakened plant with yellow patches. Scrape off manually, apply rubbing alcohol to affected areas, then treat with neem oil spray bi-weekly.