What's eating my moth orchid?

Moth orchids face their biggest indoor pest threat from mealybugs and scale, which hide in the crown and along roots under bark mix. Spider mites and aphids occasionally attack, especially in dry heated rooms. Inspect the root zone and leaf bases monthly — pests are often well-hidden before damage becomes obvious.

White cottony wax in leaf axils, between pseudobulbs, and on roots; leaves yellow and weaken progressively. Dab with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs; drench bark mix carefully with neem oil solution; repeat every 10 days for a month. Isolate plant.

Flat brown or pale oval bumps stuck to leaves and flower spikes; yellowing and distorted leaves as infestation grows. Scrape scales off with a soft toothbrush dipped in soapy water; apply horticultural oil and repeat after 14 days.

Silver-grey stippling or streaking on leaves; fine webbing visible in severe cases; common in dry, heated indoor air. Increase humidity around the plant; wipe leaves with a damp cloth; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray weekly.