What's eating my bellina moth orchid?

Phalaenopsis bellina, like all moth orchids, is most commonly attacked by scale insects, which cling to the thick, fleshy leaves and roots. Mealybugs shelter in the crown and between leaves, while spider mites cause stippling in dry air. Fungus gnats breed in the bark mix if it stays too wet. Monthly inspection catches infestations early.

Small brown or white bumps on leaf undersides and along aerial roots; yellowing leaves that drop prematurely Wipe off with a cloth dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol; apply horticultural oil; repeat monthly until gone

White cotton-like clusters in the crown, between leaf bases, and on roots; honeydew leads to sooty mold Remove with an alcohol-soaked cotton swab; spray with neem oil solution; isolate the plant immediately

Pale silvery stippling on upper leaf surfaces, particularly in winter when indoor heating dries the air Wipe leaves with a damp cloth weekly; apply insecticidal soap; increase local humidity with a pebble tray

Adults hover around the bark mix; larvae damage fine roots and tip cuttings, slowing growth Allow bark to approach dryness before watering; use yellow sticky traps; drench with Bti solution if larvae present