Orchids are definitely one of the toughest flowers to take care of, but it’s all worth it once they start blooming in unique colors and patterns. These flowering plants can even take up to seven years to produce flowers, which is why it is crucial to take good care of them.
Besides watering and light requirements, you always have to be on the lookout for pests like scales, mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pesky critters can suck the life out of your orchids and you have to do everything in your power to prevent that!
If you notice that your orchids have turned yellow and droopy, check the undersides of their leaves to see if there are any pests settled in there. Sticky honeydew is often a sign of aphid and scale infestation.
There are a few ways to fight these pests, but you should always opt for a natural method first. In this article, we are going to share the best way to fight orchid pests. Stay tuned!
Rubbing Alcohol Is The Key
Before you go to the store and buy pesticides, first try using some natural remedies to get rid of orchid pests. Although rubbing alcohol poses no threat to us, it can be deadly to pests that have waxy coats instead of hard exoskeletons (which includes most pests that attack orchids).
Alcohol removes their waxy coatings, so the pests end up dying and deteriorating. All you have to do is dip cotton balls in 70% isopropyl alcohol and wipe the plant’s leaves. Avoid using alcohols like ethanol because they might damage your plant.
Remove any insects that may be concealed behind leaves and use alcohol to clean the leaf. Alcohol has no effect on pest eggs, so you’ll have to wait until the larvae hatch before applying rubbing alcohol.
Repeat this process until all pests are gone!
Alcohol evaporates quickly and leaves a cooling effect behind – this might harm your plant and result in neurosis. So, if the weather is windy or cold, wipe off any leftover alcohol from the leaves instead of letting it evaporate.
Pest infestations are just one of the reasons why your orchid might be dying. If you want to know more, please check: Why Is My Orchid Dying? 11 Reasons And Solutions