TheNaturePlanet

Autumn has arrived, and in many southern regions, the weather is still dominated by hot temperatures, with occasional thunderstorms. This kind of weather is perfect for breeding mosquitoes and insects. If you have a delicate "Phalaenopsis orchid" at home, you need to take preventive measures for pests during this season, or it will be hard to fix pest problems once they occur.

How can you prevent pests on orchids? First, ensure good ventilation! While it sounds simple, not everyone follows through, especially in hot and humid environments. Ventilation should be at least four to five hours a day. Good air circulation prevents moisture from accumulating and keeps the temperature more consistent, making it harder for pests to thrive, as they tend to prefer humid environments. Apart from placing the orchid by the window and opening the window when the weather is good, during the rainy season or if the air inside is stuffy, you should use a small fan (not blowing directly on the plant) to keep the air moving, reducing the chances of pests.

Next, maintain cleanliness. Don’t let dry or rotten leaves pile up around the pot. These are the most likely to mold, attracting aphids and small flies to lay eggs. If you notice this, remove the debris immediately. Additionally, dust accumulation on the leaves can also attract pests. Regularly wipe the leaves with a soft cloth (on the front side). This not only allows the leaves to "breathe" but also prevents pests from settling on them.

Then, elevate the pot so it doesn't sit directly on the ground. The ground tends to be damp and dark, especially in corners of balconies or windowsills. At night, slugs or snails may crawl around. It is recommended to place the pot on a flower rack or elevate it using bricks or wooden boards, keeping the pot at least 10 cm off the ground. This makes it more difficult for pests to climb up. You can also sprinkle some lime powder or mosquito-repellent incense ash around the base of the pot to prevent pests from climbing.

Finally, install a screen on the window to block "foreign insects" from flying in. Insects might enter the house carried by the wind, but with a screen, they won't be able to get in. This prevents adult pests from landing on the leaves to lay eggs, saving you a lot of trouble later.