Scale insects on orchids

The shield on orchids is one of the most common and dangerous pests that can significantly damage the plant if timely measures are not taken. In this article we will talk about how the shield looks like an orchid, what symptoms indicate its presence and how to effectively fight this pest.

What is a shield and what does it look like?

The shield is a small insect with a hard shield that protects his body. Shields are of different types, but in orchids there are most often coczins, also known as "shields". These insects look like small tubercles on the leaves and stems of the plant, which can be brown, yellow or gray, depending on the species.

If you carefully look at the orchid, on the leaves or stems you can notice small round or oval growths that resemble shields. These shields are the protective shell of the female shield, which hides her body and eggs from the external environment. Under this shield are larvae that feed on plant juice.

Photos of shields on orchids often demonstrate brown or brown-yellow tubercles on the leaves and stems of an orchid. If a large number of scenes appears on the plant, the leaves begin to turn yellow, dry and covered with spots.

Life cycle on the orchid

1. Egg

The shield lays eggs under its shell or on the bottom of the orchid leaves. One insect can postpone several dozen eggs.

• Stage duration: 1-3 weeks (depending on temperature and humidity).

2. Larvae ("tramp")

Larvae come out of eggs and begin to actively move around the plant in search of a suitable place for fixing. During this period, they are most vulnerable and lend themselves to the processing of insecticides.

• Stage duration: 1-2 weeks.

3. Nymph

Larvae are fixed on the plant, lose mobility and begin to form a protective shell. During this period, they feed on plant juice, weakening it.

• Stage duration: 2-4 weeks.

4. Adult individual

Adult shields are completely motionless, have a solid shell that protects them from external influences. Females continue to eat orchid juices and lay new eggs, continuing the cycle.

• Life expectancy: 2-6 months (depending on the conditions).

How does the shield damage orchids?

Shields feed on orchid juice, damaging its cells. Strong infection can lead to a deterioration in the condition of the plant, the weakening of its immune system, and even to the death of an orchid. The main signs of shield infection:

1. Yellowing leaves - orchid leaves begin to turn yellow, which may indicate damage to the cells with plant juice.
2. The appearance of brown or yellow growths is shields under which there are harmful larvae.
3. Sticky plaque - shields distinguish a wax substance that can cover the leaves of the orchid. This plaque serves as a nutrient medium for the development of soot mushrooms.
4. Slow growth - infected orchid does not grow as actively as healthy, and may even stop blooming.
5. The appearance of spots on the leaves - if the shields remain on the plant for a long time, the leaves can begin to be covered with spots, which indicates damage to the tissues.

How to deal with a shield on an orchid?

The fight against the shield in an orchid requires an integrated approach. Consider several methods that will help get rid of this pest.

• 1. Mechanical removal

The first and easiest way to struggle is the mechanical removal of thyroids from the plant. To do this, you can use a soft brush or cotton pad moistened in alcohol (for example, medical or ethyl). Wipe the leaves and stems of the orchid, gently removing visible shields.

This method is effective if the infection is not too strong. However, if there are already a lot of scenes on the plant, such a method may not be sufficient.

• 2.

After you mechanically removed the main shields, you can treat the orchid with an alcohol solution to destroy the remaining larvae and eggs. To do this, dissolve 70% of alcohol in water (1: 1) and treat all parts of the plant, including stems and leaves. This solution will destroy the shield larvae and will help get rid of a particle of infection.

• 3. Using insecticides

If the infection is stronger, it is necessary to apply insecticidal agents. Many means to combat shield on orchids contain pyrethroides or other active substances that are effective against various types of pests. An example of such drugs:

• Aktara
• Confidor
• Fitoverm

Before using insecticides, it is important to carefully read the instructions so as not to damage the plant.

• 4. Treatment with soap solution

The folk method of combating a shield is the use of soap solution. To prepare it, you can use laundry soap, dissolving it in water. Such a solution helps to eliminate the shield from the surface of the plant, and also destroys eggs and larvae hiding under the shield.

• 5. Transplantation of an orchid

If the shields greatly damage the roots of orchids or soil, it is recommended to transplant the plant into a new sterile soil. During the transplant, it is necessary to carefully examine the roots, remove all the damaged areas and rinse them in a solution of fungicide to prevent re-infection.

• 6. Prevention of the appearance of the shield

To prevent re-infection, it is recommended to regularly inspect orchids for pests. Also follow the conditions of care:

• Do not pour the orchid - shields often appear on weakened plants that suffer from improper watering.
• Remove the old leaves - the leaves that begin to wither or die are the perfect place to cover insects.
• Ventilate the room - the lack of air circulation can lead to waterlogging and increasing the risk of pests.

Conclusion

The shield on orchids is a serious pest that can lead to a deterioration in the condition of the plant. It is important to notice the symptoms of infection in time and apply measures to combat this pest. Mechanical removal, the use of insecticides and folk remedies, as well as regular care will help to effectively get rid of the shield and preserve your healthy orchid.