I have to agree with Jim Brasch on his solution for scale and mealybugs. To the bottle with oil, water and soap (best soap id Ivory Liquid, a non-detergent) I add a couple of tablespoons of rubbing alcohol. Another contact killer that plants like and it also helps to thin the oil for better spread. Makes the leaves look good too. Besides orchids I grow a large amount of cacti and succulents. Most cactus growers are afraid of oil but I've never damaged a single plant with this solution. I grow a lot of Epiphyllums and related genera, many of which are as much scale bait as phals, this solution works and is relatively safe. You may need to re-apply in two weeks depending on the seriousness of the infestation and your growing environment. Just keep a spray bottle handy in the greenhouse and potting benches, remember to shake before use.
Dick France in June Gloomed El Cajon, CA -----Original Message----- Reply-To: "the OrchidGuide Digest \(OGD\)" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Message: 11 At the risk of repetition, I like to remind orchid growers that before they try to eliminate scale, mealy bugs, aphids, etc with the many dangerous chemicals on the market that they try a simple oil solution. That is 10 ml of ordinary mineral oil to one litre of water. Add 3-4 drops of ordinary kitchen detergent. Place in a simple spray bottle, shake well and spray affected plant. Repeat if necessary at 6 day intervals. Be gentle with new growth of soft leaved orchids. If this doesnt work and you have not endangered children, spouse or pets, consider the heavy missles. All bests, Jim James D. Brasch, Director Plant Hormones Canada P.O.Box 354, McMaster University Hamilton, Canada L8S 1C0 [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.orchidmall.com/hormones Fax: 905-335-3071 ------------------------------
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