Should I spray when it's budding?

[petola]

After a year's TLC, my dendrobriums are budding, a lot too. Hope they turn out to be flowers and not keiki. I see little flies around them. Should I spray them now ? Will the insecticide damage the buds? Can someone help me? Thanks!

[camille1585]

Are they flies as in fungus flies? In that case you're better off tackling the source of the problem, usually plants were the medium is never allowed to dry out.

But if you still want to spray, whether or not it will damage the buds completely depends on the insecticide. Some will damage flowers, others won't.

[Eyebabe]

Safer Soap should not damage the buds and will kill mature fungal gnats and aphids.

[petola]

Thanks Camille and Eyebabe. I think they are more like fruit flies, but I will try Soap anyway.

[Orchid126]

And only give the plant baby sips of water, if any at all, if you want flowers and not keikis. Don't give full doses of water until blooming is over.

If you can't get Safer's Soap, go to the healthfood store and get Dr. Bronner's Peppermint Soap. Bugs hate peppermint.

[petola]

Thanks Orchid 126 for the tips! Unfortunately yesterday I watered them thoroughly before I read your reply, I will reduce the water from now on, hope it's not too late! Anyway Thanks!!!