What's eating my maxillaria picta?

Maxillaria picta, a fragrant intermediate orchid, is most at risk from spider mites in dry indoor air. Mealybugs cluster at pseudobulb bases and roots, while scale insects can appear on stems and leaves. Fungus gnats are a risk in bark mixes kept too wet. Regular inspection and high humidity are the best prevention.

Tiny pale specks and silvery webbing on leaf undersides; severe infestations cause yellowing and leaf drop Boost humidity with a humidifier or pebble tray; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray weekly; remove heavily damaged leaves.

White fluffy wax at pseudobulb bases, leaf axils, and in the root mass; plants show weak new growth Treat visible colonies with isopropyl alcohol; drench root zone with neem oil; repeat every ten days for at least three cycles.

Brown or tan shell-like bumps on stems and pseudobulbs; plant vitality declines over months Scrape off scales with a soft brush; treat with horticultural oil; monitor bi-weekly and retreat as necessary.

Root feeding by larvae; adult gnats around potting mix indicate wet conditions Water with Bti solution; allow bark surface to dry between waterings; use sticky yellow traps to monitor adult populations.