Common Orchid Diseases Symptom, Treatment and Care

All plants are prone to certain types of diseases, and orchids are no different. Depending on the type and severity, you may need only to brush it off, or you may have to undertake a hospital care routine.

Viruses make up the majority of these problems. Orchids are vulnerable to at least 25 different viruses. Cymbidium mosaic virus and odontoglossum ringspot virus are the most frequently occurring cases. These plants do have natural abilities to fight off some of these infections, but it depends on sunlight, water and nutrients that the plant receives.

A common symptom would be rings of yellow or brown spots. Discoloration of the petals or brown streaks would be another. You can purchase kits that will allow you to identify and treat the virus that is affecting your plant. Viruses can spread through the air, so keep any infected plants separated from the others. There are various treatment options, depending on the virus, from an alcohol swab to a 10% bleach soak.

The most important thing is to catch the infection early and isolate the plant. Also, remove any affected parts of the plant as soon as possible.

Another common problem with orchids is fungus.

Orchids thrive in high humidity environments, but it is possible to take it too far. Excessive moisture will encourage fungal growth that may damage your plants, especially if the temperature gets much cooler at night. Making sure the temperature stays above 65F/18C will help to minimize the risk of this happening. This number may need to be adjusted slightly from species to species.

One of the most frequently occurring fungi is gloeosporium. It will start out as small yellow spots and progress into one large brown spot. This problem can be resolved by drying and improved air flow.

Certain bacterial infections can be caused by the same influences. The treatments are similar in many cases as well. Brown rot is caused by phytomonas cypripedii. The spread of this disease can be prevented by cleaning all gardening tools and gloves with bleach before using them on other plants.

Again, the most important thing is isolation of the infected plants. That, and trimming away affected portions of the plant will be very helpful in preventing spreading. Sometimes, even these measures won’t be enough to save the plant. Be sure to disinfect all pots and tools if you do need to replace a plant. Any number of common bacteria killing methods should do the trick.

         

Orchid Care - Orchid Growing Tips