What is on my cynoches leaves?

[solay]

Both my Cycnoches are in spike (I think). All was fine until I noticed these funny spots on the underside of the leaves on one of the plants. What is it? Should I be worried? is this natural thing that happens when it's about to drop leaves? What should I do now? Help!!!

[norris]

I don't grow that plant, so I'm just guessing scale insect.

[patticake]

I'm not sure what it is, but I don't think it's scale. I'm gonna run and check mine, now! Is it on both your plants or just one? I'll be curious to know also!

[jerrymeola]

Your plants are definitely in spike. I seldom look at my leaves since they die every year.

Many types shed their leaves before flowering, so losing leaves now that it is in spike is normal. Certain types will not flower with leaves and others especially hybrids will flower while leaves are still attached.

They are such a great family of plants.

Keep watering heavy. If you let them dry out too much they can abort the flowers.

[kmarch]

I agree wiht Jerry on this one. The leaves are diciduious and they should be getting ready to drop about any time now. Cycnoces do hold their leaves longer than others in this family (like mormodes which are completely bare when they flower). I don't think you have much to worry about.

Only one question: If you rub your finger over the spoted area, do you find anythign that looks like dust or fine dirt left on your finger?

[norris]

If it is scale, they will come off if you scrape them with your fingernail, you can use some rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball if it is a small infestation. Check your other plants though.

[kmarch]

I don't think its scale. I suspect mites and thus my previous question. If it were scale we'd see them clearly.

[solay]

No no dust that I can tell even though parts of the leaves have whitish specks that looked like it should rub off. Although when I tried it didn't.

The tiny spots seem to be spreading and is making the infected part of the leaves transparent when you hold it up against the light.

It is not scales since they are usually larger and crusty. These spots are very tiny and has a lighter dot in the center. I also had a few ants in the plant that I killed a day or so ago. Not sure if that has anything to do with it.

Should I spray with something or just let it be and hope the leaves drop soon?

Patti, it was on the underside of the leaves first and now it's showing through the front too.