Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 3.0 - 00001066
11/12/99
PHALEANOPSIS INSECT PROBLEMS
The orchid weevil is about 1/8 inch long, smooth, and
shiny black. The larva is a white legless grub about 1/16
of an inch long. The larva feeds on the new roots,
hollowing out the inside. The tips of infested roots turn
black. The adult feeds on the roots and tender young
leaves, sheaths and bulbs. The adult may feed on flower
petals before they open. Injury caused by the insect may
be entrances for diseases.
Slugs feed on buds, blossoms, leaves, and tender stems.
Aphids suck plant juices and are usually found at the
stem tips. A heavy infestation will coat the leaves with
sticky honeydew. A black, sooty mold can grow on the
honeydew. The insects can be green, white, pink or black.
Scales are usually brown, hard shells attached to the
stems or undersides of the leaves. Sprays are not
effective since the shell protects the insects. Heavily
infested plants should be discarded. Physically removing
the scales and then controlling immature stages with
sprays may control the problem on lightly infested plants.
Related information.
Pesticide Recommendations
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This file was generated from data base ZZ on 01/19/00.
Data base ZZ was last revised on 11/12/99.
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