Some of the common orchid pests are mites, scale insects, aphids, mealybugs, caterpillars, slaters, cockroaches, slugs and snails, whiteflies, ants, dendrobium beetle among a host of others.
Types of pesticides:
There are many chemical pesticides available to the orchid grower to control diseases and insect pests. Some chemical pesticides have to actually be sprayed onto a pest to be effective - these are known as contact poisons. Some pesticides are effective only after the insect consumes them - they are known as stomach poisons. Some pesticides are actually taken up by the plants and then moved all through the plant so that for example, mealybugs feeding on the roots will be killed by the pesticide that was sprayed onto the leaves. They are called systemics. Some pesticides have a fumigant action by which the vapor of the chemical enters the insect's breathing tubes and kills the insect. Not each and every pesticide compounds kills all species equally properly. It is very important to identify the accurate pest or disease, so that choosing the most effective chemical to use is convenient.
Which pesticide to use?
The range of available pesticides changes with time. The grower should use only those pesticides that can be purchased at the local garden centre, as those pesticides are registered for use by home growers. Growers should not buy pesticides in other states that are not registered in the ACT nor should they get small jars of any pesticide from a registered nurseryman. The use of these chemicals in the ACT by home growers is unlawful as well as dangerous.
How to use pesticides on orchids:
One should always mix and apply chemicals according to the instructions. It is sensible to wear long trousers, long-sleeved shirt, rubber gloves and shoes when working with pesticides. Apply the pesticide in a manner that delivers a good coverage on the orchids, especially the undersurface of the leaves and minimize the amount that gets on you. Avoid spraying the orchids with pesticides during a hot summer day, as these chemicals tend to damage the orchids then. Make sure to wash all the pesticide spray equipments carefully after use. Also wash yourself thoroughly after applying the pesticide and before eating, drinking or smoking and also the clothes you wore during the application.

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