Orchid Pests

Possible pests that you may come across include spider mites on the underside of the leaves due to really dry conditions in the home. Spider mite feeding causes the leaves to develop yellow spots and may turn the entire leaf yellow. Look for tiny greenish-yellow insects with eight legs along with small webs on the undersides on the leaves. Mealy bugs are another potential threat to all houseplants. Mealy bugs can be identified as tiny tufts of cotton on the leaves.

Also, scale can be a threat, this pest will appear as white bumps along the leaves and flower spike and a sticky substance may be present on the plant. All of these insects will suck the life out of your orchid and should be controlled with a light spray of horticultural oil or insecticidal soap found at any garden center diluted with water. This is a nice organic remedy and will not harm you, your plants, or pets. Avoid any oil that is considered dormant horticultural oil, as this is a heavy substance and can harm the plant.