Orchids are among the most beautiful and popular plants. They not only significantly enhance the garden, but also interior spaces. However, if the particular plant is suddenly affected by diseases such as botrytis, simple measures to eliminate it are extremely helpful.
What is botrytis and how is it controlled on orchids?
Botrytis is afungal diseasethat belongs to the genus of ascomycetes. Increasedlight and fresh air supply lead to the death of the fungus. Lowering the humidity speeds up the process. The orchid may no longer be sprayed during an infestation.
What signs indicate botrytis on the orchid?
Botrytis is a stubborn fungal disease that appears in the form ofbrown discoloration on the flowers of orchids. If the infestation progresses, a white or grayish mold will form on the stem and leaves. The orchid genera Cattleya and Phalänopsis have diseases like this particularly frequently and should therefore be checked regularly. If the first signs of fungus become visible on the orchids, you should act immediately. If the infestation is ignored, in the worst case scenario this will lead to the plant dying.
What causes lead to botrytis on orchids?
If botrytis occurs on your orchids,various causes are usually responsible for the infestation. The most common triggers include:
- Lack of fresh air
- Lack of light
- Low oxygen exchange
- Moisture on the flowers
- Low temperatures
- Particularly high s alt content in the substrate
- One-sided fertilization
To maintain the he alth of the orchid in the long term, you should check its condition at regular intervals. Thanks to simple remedies and measures, fungal diseases or pests on orchids will quickly become a thing of the past. However, when fighting the fungus, you should definitely avoid using chemical agents to save your orchids.
How do you prevent Botrytis infestation on the orchid?
Like any other plant, the orchid is not completely immune to Botrytis. However, simple measures largely counteract an infestation.thorough and nutrient-rich care is particularly helpful. Provide your orchid with a sufficient amount of fresh air and look for a location that is flooded with light. Furthermore, choosing the right fertilizer is particularly important. Use a natural and gentle product to supply the orchid with important minerals and nutrients.
Tip
Protection against Botrytis – natural fertilizers for orchids
The orchid should be protected from botrytis as much as possible. Plant-friendly home remedies are particularly suitable for this. Coffee grounds, yeast, banana peels, vegetable water and tea are extremely helpful. These nutrient-rich additives are either sprinkled onto the plant soil or added in the form of irrigation water. However, be careful not to over-fertilize the orchid. This damages the plant in the long term.
