Insects?

[Jirel]

I'm guessing this is insect damage and I think its the same insect. Any ideas which one? I cleaned the effected orchids with alcholol and q-tips but I'm sure they will come back. I've been trying to find cinimom extract with no luck, I think I'm going to have to try the internet.

Larger picture here if you need it - http://www.flickr.com/photos/jirel/3499214431/sizes/o/
Most of what I saw was the webbing on the blooms, but a couple of plants have leaf damage and I think I saw some of the same webbing on the edge of the leaves.


Again, larger image available.http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3652/...07994d92_o.jpg

[Andrew]

You've got mealy bugs. While some people find spot treatment with alcohol effective, I have not found it reliable. Alcohol will kill the ones you can see but within a few days the babies will grow up and take their place so you're just prolonging the battle. Repeated applications of insecticidal soap and/or pest oil will work but it can seem like an uphill battle for heavy infestations. Imidacloprid (tradenames include Confidor & Merit) is the safest of the pesticides that I've found to be truly effective.

[rcb]

Yep, I agree with Andrew. BTW imidacloprid is available in the US commonly from Bayer CropScience at the local box stores.

[Hummer344]

While others advise sprays first, I have success using a cotton tip applicator dipped in vegetable oil to get them off. Makes it easy to pick the little buggers off. After getting all you can see, spray with a diluted spray of alcohol. Yes, they may reappear but they should be in smaller amounts & you can use the same methods. If all else fails, then you can use the suggestions above.

[NancyG]

I found the cinnamon extract at Target. I am fighting the same battle.

[Jirel]

Thanks everyone, and cool! We'll check out Target.