White fluff on my Orchids?

Question

I have two orchids which have developed a white fluffy substances on them I wash it of and it keeps coming back. Can any one tell me the cause and how to treat it.

Answer 1

I'm with Reynwater and Askadryad, I think it's probably Mealy bug. Obviously we can't see it in person, and I can't say it isn't a fungal problem. You may need to take your plant to the local independent garden center for their diagnosis.

If it is mealy bug, it's an insect related to aphid. You should be able to 'squish' them, and thus verify our diagnosis.

Mealy bug isn't easy to control, as the fluffy coat helps to protect it from various insecticides. You may need a systemic insecticide, that is absorbed into the plant, so that it's toxic when the bugs feed on it.

I hope that this helps
good luck-

Answer 2

Mealy bugs. Use cotton ball and Isopropyl alcohol to remove them. Disyston sprinkled on the soil will prevent reinfestation. Spectracide 3 in 1 works also.

Answer 3

Either mealy bug or woolly aphid. Either way treat them with Pravado -easily available from garden centres in the UK
Just follow the instructions in the packet.

Answer 4

More than likely Mealy Bugs, check out this link to be sure and for solutions:
http://extension.unh.edu/FHGEC/docs/Mealybug.htm

Answer 5

powdery mildew they got, usually on the undersides of the leaves are white tufts this is called DOWNY MILDEW and the powdery mildew is called DUSTY WHITE COATINGS. they are both caused by fungi......... remedy,,,, destroy affected parts, apply fungicide,keep roots moist, avoid overhead watering,improve venterlation..

Answer 6

Your question is open for a lot of stick

Answer 7

You dont want to know what it is...

Answer 8

there triffids run!!!