Would you please help me identify this problem? - Orchid Board

HighSeas · #1 06-13-2013, 10:01 PM

First, I'd like to say how much I've learned from others on this board! What I like best about this community, is how much people are willing to help and share their knowledge. So before I go any further....THANK YOU ALL for all that you contribute.

Just so happens that I have a bit of an issue with one of my Vandas. Can anyone ID this? I've been on the net looking.....looking....gaping with bloodshot eyes....and can't seem to ID this exact problem. These are not depressed but instead feel course to the touch. I've had this guy for several years and I'm not noticing the same issues with any of his "room-mates". What do you think?

Thanks again for your input!

~Janet

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Skayc1 · #2 06-13-2013, 10:15 PM

could it be caused by bugs or pest?

HighSeas · #3 06-13-2013, 10:24 PM

Heck if I know! I HOPE it's a pest or bacteria....I would stand a chance of fixing that. If it's a virus, I have to destroy the plant...which I'd really really HATE to do.

Lorraine · #4 06-13-2013, 11:05 PM

I might be wrong but it could be simply from getting too cold. Some vandas are more cold sensitive if temps are under 50. I have noticed some similar spots on mine due to not bringing them in. Looks awful but new growth is fine.

HighSeas · #5 06-14-2013, 10:08 AM

Thank you for your input Lorraine! I live in Central Florida and we have had some cold winters....and he was outside. I SO hope you're right!

King_of_orchid_growing:) · #6 06-14-2013, 12:35 PM

It did kinda look like cold damage.

It also might be sunburn. The leaves are looking a bit pale.

Try growing it warmer. The night temperatures should be the thing to watch out for. If it drops below 55 F, I'd bring the orchid indoors at night.

If that doesn't work, try providing just a little more shade.

HighSeas · #7 06-14-2013, 07:26 PM

Thank you all so much! I really like this Vanda and it's a great bloomer so the thought of something that would force me to "can" it....was not something I was looking forward to!

james mickelso · #8 06-16-2013, 12:03 AM

This is most likely Guignardia. This affects mainly vandas and asconcentrums. Cut off that leaf and any subsequent leaves and treat with a fungicide. It is also known by the name Phyllosticta which is just another sexual stage of guignardia. Alternate systemic and surface fungicides.

HighSeas · #9 06-16-2013, 12:18 PM

This is why I love the Orchid Board. I've been fairly successfully growing orchids for several decades....and flowering them as well....BUT I haven't had much real knowledge in dealing with disease or pests. Just by throwing this out there, I was given an avenue for research and alas! I found an awesome article from the St. Augustine Orchid Society addressing Guignardia (which results from cold stress) and how to treat the problem. Thank you all! Orchid people are SO willing to teach and share....which is what makes this board so great! And what helps take me to a new level of learning!

Island Girl · #10 06-17-2013, 03:42 PM

I was gonna say "Thai disease" (b/c I couldn't remember the correct name, sorry) but James beat me to it! But I do have an article about it bookmarked: http://www.staugorchidsociety.org/PD...t-ThaiCrud.pdf

EDIT: Ah, looks like u have found that article already HighSeas!

And, btw.. Good Luck, I hope u save ur beautiful Vanda! ...This is a wonderful place isn't it?