Mites on orchids

Ticks in orchids is one of the most common problems that the owners of these beautiful plants face. Spider mites, shell ticks, and red ticks can apply significant damage to the plant, leading to weakening, loss of decorativeness and even death. In this article, we will examine in detail how to recognize and get rid of ticks in an orchid, as well as discuss effective measures to combat ticks in orchids.

Types of ticks in orchids

On orchids, various types of ticks can occur, including:

1. A spider mite is one of the most dangerous pests for orchids. These small ticks are almost invisible to the naked eye, but their presence can be seen by the appearance of a web on the leaves and stems. A spider mite in an orchid feeds on plant juice, which leads to yellowing and falling of the leaves.
2. The shell tick - this type of tick is characterized by the presence of a solid shell that protects it from external exposure. The shell ticks feed on the roots and stems of the plant, which weakens the orchid and slows down its growth.
3. Red tick is another pest that is often found in orchids. Red ticks in orchids cause damage to the leaves, making them spotted and gradually leading to drying.
4. A plane tick is a less common type of ticks, which can also affect orchids. It feeds on the juice of the plant, leaving the spots on the leaves and causing their deformation.

Signs of infection with orchids ticks

Early detection of ticks is the key to successful pest combat. Here are the main features that should be paid attention to:

• The appearance of a web: the presence of a web on the leaves and stems of the plant is the first sign of the presence of a spider mite. The web is often very thin and invisible, so you should regularly inspect the plant.
• Changing the color of the leaves: the leaves can turn yellow, become spotted or acquire a silver tint. This indicates that ticks suck juices from plant tissue.
• Slow down growth: orchids infected with ticks begin to grow worse, they can stop blooming, and new leaves and roots develop with a delay.
• Leaf deformation: leaves can be deformed, twisted and covered with spots. It is also a sign of tick activity.

How to deal with ticks in orchids?

The fight against ticks requires a sequence and use of various methods. Here are the main ways to combat ticks in orchids:

1. Manual processing: At the initial stages of infection, you can use a cotton swab moistened with soap water or alcohol to remove ticks from the surface of the leaves. This allows you to partially get rid of pests and slow down their distribution.
2. Acaritsid treatment: acaricides are special drugs designed to combat ticks. The processing of orchids with such means as phytoverm or actar will help effectively destroy ticks at all stages of their development. It is important to follow the instructions for use and observe precautions.
3. Humidity increase: ticks prefer a dry environment, so increasing humidity around the plant can help in the fight against them. Use air humidifier or spray the orchid (but do not forget to avoid stagnation of water in the sinuses).
4. Isolation of the infected plant: if you find ticks on one of the orchids, isolate it from other plants. This will prevent the spread of pests to other flowers in your collection.
5. Folk remedies: as an alternative to chemicals, you can use an infusion of garlic or oil. These means have repellent and antiseptic properties and can help in the fight against ticks.

Prevention of the appearance of ticks in orchids

Prevention is the best way to protect orchids from tick infection. Here are a few recommendations that will help to avoid the appearance of pests:

• Regular inspection: regularly inspect orchids, especially the lower side of the leaves, for the presence of a web or ticks. This will allow timely detecting the problem.
• Maintaining optimal humidity: maintain the humidity level in the room at the level of 60-70%. This will not only improve the conditions for the orchid, but also reduce the risk of ticks.
• Compliance with purity: regularly wipe the leaves of the orchid with a damp cloth to remove dust and prevent the formation of a web. It will also help prevent the appearance of ticks.
• The insulation of new plants: new plants brought to the house should be isolated for several weeks to make sure that they are not infected with ticks or other pests.

Conclusion

Ticks in orchids, whether web, carapace or red ticks, can cause significant harm to your plant, if you do not take measures on time. It is important to regularly inspect plants, observe the rules of care and carry out preventive measures to avoid infection. If the ticks nevertheless appeared, the use of acaricides, manual processing and increased humidity will help to effectively cope with this problem. Proper care and attention to details will allow your orchids to stay healthy and delight you with their flowering.