Just like people, orchids occasionally get sick. Overwatering or lack of proper air flow can lead to bacterial or fungal infections, pests can attack or your orchid may contract a virus. With a little tender loving care, Phalaenopsis orchids can often fight off infections or pests, but there is no cure for orchid viruses. You can try repotting a sick orchid; but if it continues to fail, you will have to discard it. Prevention is the best way to keep your orchid virus-free.
As noted in our last post, viruses can spread from contaminated plants or be introduced by mites or insects. But the No. 1 cause of orchid viruses is improper tool sanitation during orchid handling. To prevent orchid viruses, follow these plant sanitation guidelines:
For additional information on orchid diseases, orchid pests and other orchid ailments, visit the orchid care section of our website.
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