sarasota

orchid view
society
May 7—Antonio Toscano
“Sex, Lies, and Or-
chids: Looking into
the Beauty, Exoticism,
and Conservation of
Dwarf Orchids in the
Brazilian Rainforests”

June 4—Tom Aaron of

Green Earth Nursery
& Landscaping, Jack-
sonville, will discuss:
“General (Commer-
cial) Orchid Culture:
The Secret Tricks of
the Trade”

Hospitality Committee
Reminder:

Sam Boyd . . . . . . . . Lt refreshment

Charlotte Dart. . . . . . . 1 gal Iced Tea
Karen Bologna. . . . Lt refreshment
Lori, Gerald Boyce . Lt refreshment
Sam Boyd. . . . . . . . Lt refreshment
Fred Bigio. . . . . . . . . . . . Lg Bag ice
Pamela Bucci. . . . . . Lt refreshment
Manuel Chepote. . . . . . . .3 one liter
soft drinks (Coke, Sprite, Diet
My First American Orchid Society Award
Pepsi—your choice) On Saturday afternoon, Ted Kellogg, the head judge me my Coelogyne Bird in
Michelle Carroll . . . . Lt refreshment March 16th, I was startled of the Englewood Area Flight had received an AM
Dianne Brownell . . . Lt refreshment to receive a phone call from Orchid Society Show, telling Please see “Stoner” on page 4

Meetings are on the first

Monday of each month. Doors
open at 6:15 pm. Cultural
INSIDE: ORCHID VIEW is published monthly by the
Sarasota Orchid Society and is available to

Study Group starts promptly
at 6:30 pm. Regular meeting
starts at 7:30 pm.
Marie Selby Botanical
Gardens, 801 South Palm
Avenue, Sarasota, Florida
www.sarasotaorchidsociety.org
May
Upcoming shows. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 members in either printed or digital format.
Aphids. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Minutes of April SOS Meeting. 7 2012
Winners at April Meeting. . . . . . 7
May Hospitality Providers. . . . . 7
Photos from April Meeting. . . . 8
Orchid Diseases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
 Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 2
SUPPORT OUR VENDORS AND SUPPLIERS
The Sarasota Orchid Society Inc. CORRESPONDING SECRETARY:
(SOS) meets on the first Monday Manuel Chepote AOS
561-404-2000
of each month at Selby Botanical
Gardens, 800 South Palm Ave., AOS REPRESENTATIVE: Art Stone Orchids
Sarasota, FL. The SOS Inc., an Barry Reese
American Travel Group, Shelton Thorne,
affiliate of the American Orchid 813-282-4510 or 800-266-0755
Society, is a nonprofit association MEMBERSHIP:
with the aims of promoting the Carolyn Langdon Byrd’s Orchids, Bill & Wanda Byrd
863-859-5060
development, improvement and 941-907-4161
preservation of orchids through LWRLangdon@gmail.com Canaima Orchids, Michael Sinn
the dissemination of informa- 941-773-2940 Mon-Sat 10:00 am-4:00
tion concerning the culture, SHOW CO-CHAIRPERSONS: pm

hybridization or development of Monroe Kokin & Chapman’s Orchids, Charlie Chapman

orchids; and generally to extend Jo Davis 407-619-1907
the knowledge of orchids. Fender’s Flora Orchids, Bill & Susan
Annual dues are $20; $25 for LIBRARIAN: Fender, 941-412-1355 Mon-Sat 9:00
family. Deadline for the newslet- Pat Quinnelly am-2:00 pm
ter is the 15th of the previous Florida SunCoast Orchids, Jim Roberts
month. NEWSLETTER EDITOR: 941-544-6831 By appointment only
Contributors to this newslet- Fred Bigio
ter give reprint rights of their fredbigio@comcast.net Hicks Orchid Supplies, John & Lois
Hicks 407-493-3064
work to newsletters and other
affiliates of the American Orchid WEBMASTER: Farm & Garden, Jeff Hibbs
Society. Alan Marlor 941-366-4954 Mon-Sat 9:00 am-5:00
pm
www.sarasotaorchidsociety.org
RAFFLE HOST: Krull-Smith Orchids, Jim Krull & Frank
2011 Sarasota Orchid Society Leroy Mouton Smith, 407-866-4134

Board of Directors Nature on the Rocks, Guy & Janice

STORAGE MANAGER: 386-437-6832
PRESIDENT: Norm Hillstrom
Odom’s Orchids, John & Louise Odom
Monroe Kokin 772-467-1386
941-445-4789 DISPLAY TABLE HOSTS:
orchidpix@comcast.net Roy Krueger Orchid Art, Joné Ritchie Orchid Paint-
Barry Reese ings 941-922-3434 By appointment only

VICE PRESIDENT: Orchid Art, Judy Robertson Ceramic

Dennis Pavlock AT-LARGE: Orchid Art 941-926-1819 By appoint-
Connie Waymer ment only
941-966-8753
David Belle
denny.pavlock@hp.com Palmer Orchids, Robert Palmer
Michael Sinn 941-322-1644 Mon-Sat 9:00 am-4:00
pm Call for Appointment
TREASURER:
COUNSEL TO THE SOS:
Laurie Stoner Plantío La Orquídea, Rafael Romaro
Robert M. Johnson, Esq. 941-504-7737 Mon-Sat 9:00 am-5:00
941-358-8537
One North Tuttle Avenue pm
laurissas@msn.com Sarasota, FL 34237
941-951-0707
The Orchid Specialist, Steve Hawkins
407-889-3138 or 321-279-3003
RECORDING SECRETARY:
Jo Davis 941– 228-5501
srqjd@verizon.net

 Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 3
JOIN THE AOS
If you are not a member of the
American Orchid Society, let
me briefly tell you about the
premier organization devoted
to our hobby. The AOS is
the world’s largest specialty
horticulture group and of-
fers information not avail-
able elsewhere. The monthly
magazine, Orchids, is the
most highly-regarded orchid
periodical in the world. The
photography and articles are
outstanding. Membership
entitles you to a 10% discount
on publications and your dues
support conservation and
educational programs. As a
new member you will receive
a copy of Your First Orchid, a
book chock full of advice and
an Almanac listing all affiliate
organizations (Florida has the
most with 58), growers, special
interest groups, descriptions
Paph wardii
of awards, and many more Photo by Bob Scully
resources. Membership forms
are available at the sign-in
table for anyone who needs
one.
The AOS also publishes the
Awards Quarterly (Now on
CD AQ Plus), with detailed
descriptions of 200-300 award-
ed orchids with color photo-
graphs. I eagerly await mine
every three months.
Dues are U.S. single mem-
bership $65.00; for a 2 year
membership $125.00. Ameri-
can Orchid Society, 16700 AOS
Lane, Delray Beach, Fl. 33446
TheAOS@aos.org; 561.404.2000

Monroe
 Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 4
UPCOMING
SHOWS
MAY
4—Platinum Coast Orchid
Society Show
Kiwanis Isalnd Park Gynasi-
um, 951 Kiwanis Island Park
Rd., Merritt Island, FL
13—Volusia County Or-
chid Society Show, Volusia
County Fairgrounds, Hester
Building, 3150 E. New York
Ave., Deland, FL
18–20—Redland Inter-
national Orchid Festival,
Redland Fruit & Spice Park,
24801 SW 187 Ave., Home-
stead, FL.
Contact: Robert Randall,
PO Box 924243, Homestead,
FL 33092
(305) 245-5565
caribplants@att.net
LET’S TALK ABOUT SALES
The vendors who
lecture at our meetings
take their valuable
time and effort to edu-
cate us on orchid
culture. In turn, they
ask us to buy their
plants which they bring
to sell at our meetings.
We know that there are
lots of places to buy
orchids in our area but
as members of SOS, we
should really make a
point of patronizing the
speakers and advertis-
ers when we buy new
plants.
V. hookeriana v. alba
  Photo by Bob Scully
For members who are re-
Member
Advertising
Newsletter advertise-
ments are $120.00 per
year. Checks payable
to Sarasota Orchid Soci-
ety may be sent to:
Laurie Stoner
5648 Country Lakes Dr.
Sarasota, FL 34243-3805
Bulb. medusae ‘Miami’
  Photo by Bob Scully
“Stoner” from page 1
(Award of Merit). Before the
news could even sink in, he
asked, “What are you going
to name it?” (because when a
plant that receives an award,
the exhibitor gets to name
the cultivar.) It didn’t take
me long to decide. Since this
is my first AM, I wanted to
name it for my first grand-
son, Conor, who would be
one year old soon. Now this
particular plant will forever
be called Coel. Bird in Flight
‘Conor’ AM/AOS.
ceiving the newsletter by
Since that day, I’ve been
mail, you are missing out
asked many times how this
process works. I’m not a
on some wonderful color judge so I haven’t actually
pictures taken during the
participated, but I’ve seen
year in our newsletter. the painstaking process
If you have computer
judges go through to as-
access and are getting sess an orchid when it’s
the newsletter by snail
“pulled” from a display at
mail, you can switch and a show. Plants can also be
save the Society $7.00
judged at one of 35 Centers
per year per person. throughout the United States
Please contact me and and Canada. These Centers
I’ll be glad to add you to
our e-mail list.
provide opportunities to
have your plant judged on
Carolyn Langdon specified monthly dates. For
lwrlangdon@gmailcom example, the Florida North-
Central Judging Center has
Please see “Stoner” on page 5
 Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 5
“Stoner” from page 4
AM (Award of Merit) ing taxonomic verification
two judging sites—one in Awarded to orchid spe- supplied by the exhibitor.
Orlando and one in Tampa cies or hybrids scoring 80 (see Taxonomic Authorities)
(the Tampa Garden Center, to 89 points inclusive on a
2629 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa, 100-point scale. CHM (Certificate of Horti-
is at 7:30 pm on the fourth cultural Merit)
Wednesday of the month.) FCC (First Class Certificate) Awarded to a well-grown
Since flowers must be in The highest flower-quality and well-flowered species or
pristine shape and in bloom award, awarded to orchid natural hybrid with charac-
at a specific date and time, species or hybrids scor- teristics that contribute to
a little luck and effort is re- ing 90 points or more on a the horticultural aspects of
quired to make this happen! 100-point scale. orchidology, such as aes-
Judges donate their time thetic appeal. This award is
and energy. It’s a labor of JC (Judges’ Commendation) granted provisionally and
love for them, but if your Given for distinctive char- filed with the judging center
plant is awarded, you will be acteristics that the judges Chair pending taxonomic
charged $40 for the certifi- unanimously feel should verification supplied by the
cate that states your flower’s be recognized but cannot exhibitor. (see Taxonomic
measurements, a detailed be scored in the customary Authorities)
description of the inflores- ways.
cence as well as the number CCM (Certificate of Cultural
of flowers and buds. It’s AD (Award of Distinction) Merit)
also photographed. All this Awarded once to a cross Awarded to the exhibitor of
data is entered into the AOS representing a worthy new a well-flowered specimen
database so it can be made direction in Breeding. The plant of robust health. The
available around the world. award is granted unani- plant must score more be-
Note: Well-grown specimen mously without scoring by tween 80 and 89 points inclu-
plants can also receive a cul- the judging team assigned. sive on a 100-point scale.
tural award. Here’s a list of
the initials you may see afterAQ (Award of Quality) CCE (Certificate of Cultural
an orchid’s name. For more Awarded once to a cross Excellence)
information, visit aos.org. exhibited by a single indi- Awarded to the exhibitor of
vidual as a group of not less a well-flowered specimen
AOS Awards than 12 plants or inflores- plant of robust health. The
The American Orchid Society cences of different clones of a plant must score more than
grants the following awards hybrid or cultivated species. 90 points on a 100-point
to orchids and exhibitors. At least one of the inflores- scale. Plants receiving this
AOS awards are a recog- cences must receive a flower award represent the highest
nized measure of quality quality award and the over- level of orchid culture.
the world over and coveted all quality of the group must
by hobbyists and commer- be an improvement over the Laurie Stoner
cial growers alike. An AOS former type.
flower quality award adds
value to an orchid in its own CBR (Certificate of Botani-
right, and as a parent for cal Recognition)
creating hybrids. Awarded to rare and unusu-
al species with educational
HCC (Highly Commended interest that has received no
Certificate) previous awards. The entire
Awarded to orchid spe- plant must be exhibited. This
cies or hybrids scoring 75 award is granted provi-
to 79 points inclusive on a sionally and filed with the
All photos on this page by Bob Scully
100-point scale. judging center Chair pend-
 Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 6
eggs to provide next season’s spread virus and disease. a cotton swab soaked in rub-
offspring. bing alcohol.
Control 3. Ladybugs—adults and lar-
Symptoms Prevention is better than a vae—eat aphids, but will fly
These insects are easy to cure; good cultural prac- away when their food source
spot. Their rapid repro- tices and purchasing healthy is depleted.
duction and development plants reduce the chance of 4. Garlic-water sprays (pur-
quickly produces colonies, infestation. The most com- chased or homemade) act

Aphids- which feed on the parts of mon way of acquiring pests topically, systemically, and as
the plant receiving the most is buying an infested plant. a repellent.
nutrients. They can be found Aphids easily colonize clean 5. Insecticidal soap dissolves
by Susan Jones on new growth, at the base plants when they are grown aphids’ cuticle (outer cover-
Among the most common of buds, on flowers and on close together, allowing ing).
orchid pests, aphids are the undersides of leaves. movement from plant to 6. Horticultural oils smother
slow-moving, soft-bodied Their feeding causes poor plant. Winged aphids may the insect’s breathing pores.
insects related to scale. growth, stunted plants or colonize orchids that are 7. Growth regulators and
Usually less than 1/8 inch curled and distorted leaves. outdoors, or indoors and in chitin inhibitors (e.g., Enstar
long, greenish white or Developing aphids shed greenhouses where air cur- II) disrupt the insects’ devel-
black, aphids have soft, white skins. A pile of them rents from fans help spread opment.
pear-shaped bodies, long on upper leaf surfaces may the critters. To control the 8. Pyrethrum, a natural in-
legs, antennae, and sucking be your first sign that these proliferation of aphids, im- secticide derived from plant
mouthparts to feed on plant destructive insects have ar- mediately isolate an infested sources, attacks the insects’
juices. Most are wingless, rived. plant. nervous systems.
but winged versions appear Fortunately, aphids are 9. Stronger insecticides (e.g.,
to migrate between plants Damage not difficult to eradicate. malathion) also provide con-
when a colony becomes Where buds are attacked, For any treatment method, trol. Be certain pesticides are
crowded. the flower if it opens at all — repeat the procedure twice labeled for aphid control and
The adult female aphid will be mottled and dis- after the initial application at approved for use on orchids.
gives birth to between 60 torted. The sap sucking may seven- to 10-day intervals to 10. Systemic insecticides
and 100 female nymphs result in wilting, deformed kill successive generations. (e.g., Orthene, Shield) are
every day for a period of 20 plant growth, yellowing, and Test any treatment on a small absorbed into the plants sap
to 30 days. These nymphs even loss of leaves. Aphids’ population of plants before stem, poisoning chewing
immediately start to feed salivary secretions can also widespread use. and sucking insects.
and grow, molting several be toxic to their host plant. To control aphids, one
times to mature to an adult Reprinted with permission from
Aphids eat more plant fluids must also eliminate ants. In-
female capable of reproduc- than they can digest, excret- secticides destroy the worker Orchids—The Magazine of
ing within seven to ten days, ing honeydew — a sweet, the American Orchid Society
ants that move and pro-
all without mating. Within Vol. 70 No. 10 (www.aos.org).
syrupy material — on leaves tect aphids, but the colony
a few days, thousands of and stems. This attracts must be eradicated for total
aphids can be born. sooty mould, a fungus that control. Sugar-based ant
When colonies become grows in honeydew, mak- baits are recommended, as
overcrowded, winged forms ing leaves look dirty and ants that farm aphids prefer
appear, to fly to establish black. Ants are also drawn to sugar over fats.
new colonies. The insects can honeydew; they feed on it,
cycle continuously under and will fiercely defend their Ten Ways to Control
greenhouse conditions, their source against predators. Aphids
rate of development affected They will even farm aphids, 1. A gentle brush or jet of
only by temperature. moving them from plant water can kill and dislodge
In the autumn, females to plant so that additional aphids from plants. The foli-
begin producing a few honeydew factories can be age may also be washed in
males. Females born at the created. soapy water and rinsed with
time have eggs within their Traveling between plants, a sink sprayer.
bodies; they mate and lay the aphids can introduce and 2. For a few aphids, dab with
 Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 7
Minutes of May 7, 2012
SOS Meeting
Hospitality Committee:

April 2012 We are asking those listed

below to please take their
Dennis Pavlock, SOS VP, turn for this month to
called the meeting to or- help. It involves bringing
der at 7:30 pm. light refreshments and
•  Carolyn Langdon intro- or beverages, help set up
duced new members and buffet table, and share in
guests. the clean-up process after
•  The treasurer’s report the meeting. Doors open
was posted on a cover let- at 6:15 and all food and
ter for members receiving set-up must be finished
their newsletter by email by 7:15, before the meet-
Roy demonstrating the art of transplanting to an appreciative audience of rapt
and an insert for those orchid groupies Photo by Bill Shaban ing starts at 7:30.
members receiving it by
mail. A motion to approve her Coel. Bird in Flight Al and Mecky sold Your help will be greatly ap-
and seconded. A vote I wanted to inform the raffle tickets in the back. preciated:
was taken to approve the membership of the current This is a great way to start
report. board members that are your orchid collection if Sam Boyd . . . . . . . . . Lt refreshment
• SOS members received not returning to the board; you are new to the orchid Charlotte Dart. . . . . . 1 gal Iced Tea
the following for the Barry Reese, David Belle world and for those of us Karen Bologna . . . . . Lt refreshment
Englewood Show: & Leroy Mouton. that have some is an inex- Lori, Gerald Boyce . Lt refreshment
•  30 Blue Ribbons We need to have the pensive way to increase Sam Boyd. . . . . . . . . Lt refreshment
•  16 Red Ribbons membership approve the your collection. Fred Bigio . . . . . . . . . . . . Lg Bag ice
•  5 Yellow Ribbons New Board Members: Lori Roy reviewed the plant Pamela Bucci. . . . . . . Lt refreshment
•  Our SOS exhibit won Boyce, John Albrecht, John table. Manuel Chepote. . . . . . . 3 one liter
3rd Place for the Most Masters, & Jim Roberts. A Meeting was ad- soft drinks (Coke, Sprite, Diet
Outstanding Society motion was made to ac- journed at 9:45 pm. Pepsi—your choice)
•  Most Outstanding Den- cept the new Board mem- Michelle Carroll. . . . Lt refreshment
drobium, Susan Gerhardt,
for Her Den. Golden Aya.
bers, and seconded. All in
favor, none opposed. Winners Dianne Brownell. . . Lt refreshment

Most Outstanding Vanda

Plant-Jo Davis for her
Just a reminder: 2012
SOS dues were due in from April 2 Light refreshments:
Desserts, Cookies, Cheese
Vanda Tharab Kasemchai
• Most Outstanding Small
February. Please make
sure you are paid up! If Meeting & Crackers, Fruits and or
Nuts.
Cattleya, Al Langdon for not, you will not receive
his C. Carmela’s Tropical the May Newsletter!! If you cannot make this
Beauty. This meeting was all meeting, please call or
•  Most Outstanding Van- about learning how to email me as soon as
daceous Alliance Plant- divide larger orchids that possible, or switch with
Bob Scully for his Phal have gotten too big for another member.
equestris ‘Alba their current “pot” and
•  Most Outstanding Cyp- then learning how to re- Thanks so much!
ripedium Alliance, Mon- pot the divisions.Laurie Speakers Choice—Coel. Bird in Flight
roe Kokin, for his Paph Stoner , Denny Pavlock , ‘Conor’ AM/AOS, owner: Lorrie Stoner Judy Robertson,
Gary Romanga Cathy Lewis, Susan Ger- There was a second place tie Hospitality Committee
•  Best Hybrid, Jo Davis, hardt, & Jack Knuese were and no photos were avail- jerob1@verizon.net
for her Rlc. Turandot dividing orchids and then able: 941-926-1819
•  Laurie Stoner received demonstrated how to Dendrobium Aggregatum
an AOS award -an AM for repot those divisions.
Sarcoglottis Sceptrodes
 Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 8
BYRD’S ORCHIDS ANNUAL SPRING SALE  Saturday, June 2, 2012 - 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Guest orchid growers will be: B & D Orchids and Featherstone Orchids. Also, the Lakeland African Violet Club will be set up under the
trees selling their beautiful African violets. Members of the Ridge Orchid Society will be grilling hotdogs and hamburgers which non-
members can purchase for a small fee. Address: 6302 Green Road, Lakeland 33810. E-mail: orchidswb@aol.com. Phone: 863-859-5060.

Some random shots from the April SOS Meeting

Photos by Bill Shaban
 Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 9
ORCHID DISEASES  Reprinted from the 2007-2012 St. Augustine Orchid Society, Inc.
Bacterial Soft and Brown Rot—Erwinia
SYMPTOMS: Small water-soaked spots appear on the leaves and often are sur-
rounded by yellow halos. If unchecked, the infection will rapidly rot the leaves
and roots and spread more slowly into the rhizomes or pseudobulbs. This wet rot
Bacterial Soft Rot may have a foul odor and has a water soaked appearance. 
Phalaenopsis. Disease spreads so rapidly that plants may be completely rotted
in 2 to 3 days. The bacteria are opportunistic organisms that can enter through
wounds. 
Dendrobium. Leaves appear yellow and water-soaked and become black and
sunken. 
Vanda. Leaves develop translucent patches which become black and sunken. 
Paphiopedilum. Leaves develop small, round spots often near the middle of the
Brown Rot on Paphiopedilum leaf. The spots are initially yellow and water-soaked but eventually become red-
dish brown and sunken. The spot enlarges in all directions and may reach the
growing crown before the leaf tip is affected. If untreated, the disease quickly
spreads throughout the plant, leaving it a dark, shriveled mass. 
Grammatophyllum. Leaves have water-soaked, browning spots which become
black and sunken.

Brown Rot on Paphiopedilum TREATMENT: Immediately remove infected tissue using a sterile instrument, spray
bactericides like Physan or copper compounds on infected and adjacent plants
following label instructions (copper should not be used on dendrobiums or bloom-
ing plants), disinfect growing area with 10% bleach solution. Treat nearby plants as
well as those that are diseased.

PREVENTION: The disease is spread by splashing water so avoid overhead watering

if the disease is present. The pathogen favors hot and moist conditions, so if infec-
tion occurs, keep leaves dry, increase air circulation and reduce temperature and
humidity (if possible). Periodic preventive sprays with copper compounds help to
prevent infection, particularly during hot and humid weather (do not apply cop-
per to dendrobiums). Always follow label instructions.

Brown Rot on Oncidium

Bacterial Brown Spot—

Acidovorax (syn. Pseudomonas)
SYMPTOMS: Bacterial brown spot is the most common and severe disease of pha-
laenopsis. The symptoms may appear anywhere on the leaf as a small, soft, water
soaked blister. Initially dirty green in color, the infected spot enlarges, coalesces
and eventually becomes brown or black, dried up and sunken. It oozes bacteria-
Sunken Brown Spots on Zy- laden liquid, particularly when the disease reaches the tip of the leaf. It is most
gopetalum Leaf prevalent during the warmer weather. 
Phalaenopsis. The blister-like spots may be surrounded with a yellowish or pale
green halo. Spots coalesce, and the infection spreads rapidly. If the diseased area
invades the crown, the plant will die. 
Cattleya. The infection enters through wounds on older plants and usually affects
 Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 10
Yellow and Green Halo in Later
Stage
Bacterial Brown Spot
Black Rot Collapses Cattleya
Pseudobulb
Discoloration from Black Rot
Black Rot Visible at Base of
Pseudobulb
older leaves. It appears as sunken black spots that are clearly delimited. It advanc-
es slowly and is rarely fatal. 


TREATMENT: Immediately remove infected tissue using a sterile instrument, spray
bactericides like Physan or copper compounds on infected and adjacent plants
following label instructions (copper should not be used on dendrobiums or bloom-
ing plants), disinfect growing area with 10% bleach solution. Treat nearby plants as
well as those that are diseased. 


PREVENTION: Pseudomonas cattleya is a water-borne pathogen that prefers warm,
moist conditions. Reduce humidity and temperature (if possible), eliminate over-
head watering and increase air circulation.
Brown Spot with Yellow Margin
on Vanda Leaf
Brown Spot on Tip of Older Cat- Small Sunken Spots on Phal—
tleya Leaf Start of Brown Spot Infection
Black Rot—Pythium and Phytophthora
SYMPTOMS: The infection usually starts on the leaves, new leads or roots, though
all plant parts are susceptible. The disease spreads rapidly, particularly when the
temperature and humidity are high. Pseudobulbs, roots or rhizomes show infec-
tions as purplish-black, often sharply delineated, discolored area in the center of
the plant. The infection often starts in the roots and may spread upward to the
base of the pseudobulb or leaf, which can cause the leaf to fall from the plant with
a slight jarring. In seedlings and community pots, small water soaked spots may
start on the seedling, and plant after plant rots and dies.
Cattleya. May show a creamy yellow discoloration on one or both sides of the
pseudobulbs. The discoloration eventually turns black or brown and softens, and
the bulb rots.
TREATMENT: Unless the plant is valuable, the best approach is to discard it, as the
disease is highly contagious and will spread from plant to plant from splashing
water. If the plant is valuable, isolate it from your other plants, remove infected tis-
sue with a sterile tool, and drench with a suitable fungicide like Subdue or Banrot
following label instructions. 


PREVENTION: High temperatures and humidity contribute to the spread of the
disease. Consider using a preventative fungicide drench like Banrot or Subdue,
particularly during hot humid periods, following label instructions.
 Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 11
Fusarium Wilt Blocks Vascular
System
Note Diagnostic Purple Band on
Rhizome
Flower on Fusarium-Infected
Cattleya
Base of Stem Turns Creamy Yel-
low on Phal
Southern Blight advancing into
Tissue
White Fungal Growth on Orchid
Stem
Fusarium Wilt
SYMPTOMS: Fusarium can infect a plant through orchid roots or by invading the
rhizome of recently divided plants. Fusarium blocks the flow of moisture through
the plant’s vascular system plugging the phloem. The pathogen is spread through
improper hygiene, generally as a result of using nonsterile cutting tools, which
transfers the fungus from plant to plant. Infected leaves are yellow, thin, shriv-
eled, wrinkled or wilted and eventually die. Severely infected plants may die in
3-9 weeks, while mildly infected plants gradually decline over a year or so. The
diagnostic symptom in the plant is a circle or band of purple or pinkish-purple
discoloration on the outer layers of the rhizome evident when the rhizome is cut. If
the disease is extensive, the entire rhizome may turn purple, and the discoloration
may extend to the pseudobulbs. 


TREATMENT: Discard infected part of rhizome and pseudobulb if the purple band
is evident. Repot only the part of plant showing no purple discoloration. Drench
sanitized plants in a thiophanate methyl (like Cleary’s 3336 or Banrot) following
label instructions. Be diligent in disinfecting growing area and cutting tools. Each
time the cutting tool contacts infected tissue, it should be sterilized before making
a second cut. 


PREVENTION: Prevention is a simple matter of following proper hygiene. Sterilize
cutting tools after each use, preferably through flame sterilization.
Collar Rot, Southern Blight—Sclerotium
SYMPTOMS: The main symptom of sosuthern blight or Collar Rot is a rapid col-
lapse and rotting of the roots, pseudobulbs and lower parts of the leaves. Roots,
pseudobulbs, leaf bases and the lower part of stems turn creamy yellow. The af-
fected tissue becomes brown (resulting from invasion by secondary pathogens),
collapses and rots very rapidly. The disease eventually girdles and destroys the
entire basal portion of the plant. Affected leaves yellow, wilt and die.
 Small yellow
or tan sclerotia resembling mustard seeds form on the affected tissue. This is the
resting form of the fungus.
Phalaenopsis. Base of stem turns light yellow, later dark brown, and infections
spreads to roots and leaves. White fungal growth can sometimes be seen on stems
with rapid collapse and rotting of roots, pseuodobulbs and leaves. This fungus
thrives at high temperatures and humidity.
TREATMENT: Systemic fungicide like thiophanate methyl (like Cleary’s 3336 or Ban-
rot). Sterilize benches and surrounding area with bleach or pool algaecide.


PREVENTION: Normal sanitation, good air movement and lower temperatures (if
possible) may help reduce the spread of this disease. The pathogen is most active
in warm weather when humidity is high.
 Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 12
Anthracnose on Cattleya Leaf
Tips
Anthracnose on
Oncidium Leaf Tip
Anthracnose on Cattleya
Fungal Root Rot—Rhizoctonia
SYMPTOMS: Root rot occurs when the medium breaks down, drainage is poor and/
or plants are overwatered. Rot sets in quickly when roots are damaged by injury
or salt buildup from hard water or over fertilizing. Rhizoctonia is very contagious
and if the disease is not controlled immediately, infected plants develop brown
root rot and die.
 Rhizoctonia is primarily a root disease, but the symptoms can be
noticed on aerial parts of the plant. Leaves and pseudobulbs become yellow, shriv-
eled, thin and twisted and new growths become progressively smaller. The roots
usually show a brown rot with white or brown fungal growth. In severe infections,
the fungus girdles and kills the plant. The infection quickly invades the lower
leaves and rhizomes of small seedlings. 


TREATMENT: Remove infected part of roots and leaves using a sterile cutting tool,
drench the remaining plant in a protectant fungicide like thiophanate methyl (such
as Cleary’s 3336) or systemic fungicide (such as Subdue) following label instruc-
tions. Disinfect growing area with 10% bleach solution. 


PREVENTION: Make sure your potting media is fresh and your plants are not over-
watered. When disease is suspected in other plants or when repotting is overdue,
unpot the plants, check their roots and repot as necessary. In hard-water areas,
pots should be flushed at least monthly to prevent root damage by watering heav-
ily to solubilize the salts and then watering heavily an hour later to flush the salts
from the pot.
ORCHID LEAF AND FLOWER SPOTTING FUNGI
Anthracnose—Colletotrichum
and Glomerella
SYMPTOMS: This fungal disease infects the aerial portion of the plant. The leaves
are most often attacked. Leaf tips turn brown beginning at the apex and proceed-
ing toward the base. Dark brown or light gray patches develop, sometimes as
concentric rings or as numerous dark bands across the leaf. The affected area is
usually sharply defined and somewhat sunken, while the remainder of the leaf
appears normal. Sporing bodies develop in the infected area.
 Flowers develop wa-
tery, black or brown pustules which are usually raised and occur on the underside
of older sepals and petals. The spots may merge and cover the entire flower. 


TREATMENT: Systemic fungicide like thiophanate methyl (like Cleary’s 3336) or pro-
tectant fungicides like Mancozeb, following label instructions. Alternate systemic
and protectant fungicide use.


PREVENTION: Normal sanitation, good air movement, lower temperatures (if pos-
sible) and increased light may help reduce the spread of this disease. The pathogen
is most active in warm weather when light is low and moisture is high.
 Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 13
Cercospora on Cattleya Leaf
Cercospora on Cattleya Leaf
Cercospora on Cattleya—Irregu-
lar Blotches
Guignardia—Diamond-Shaped
Lesions
Phylosticta on Dendrobium
Phyllosticta on Vanda Leaf
Leaf Spots—Cercospora, Guignardia &
Phyllosticta and Septoria
CERCOSPORA SYMPTOMS: Infection shows first as a yellow spot on the underside
of the leaf. Soon after infection occurs, the yellow-green area may be noted on
the top surface of the leaf. As the spots enlarge in irregular patterns, they become
slightly sunken and necrotic and turn purplish brown to purplish black. The spots
continue to enlarge in a circular or irregular pattern and may eventually cover the
entire leaf. The advancing margin remains yellow. Heavily infected leaves usually
fall from the plant prematurely, especially if the infection started near the base of
the leaf. 


GUIGNARDIA SYMPTOMS: The first signs of Guignardia infection are tiny, dark pur-
ple, elongated lesions on either leaf surface. These lesions run parallel to the veins
and elongate into purple streaks or diamond-shaped areas. Spots often merge to
form large irregular lesions that may affect a large part of the leaf. With age, the
center of the lesion turns tan. Raised, black sporing bodies develop in the affected
area feeling like sandpaper. Affects mostly ascocentrums and vandas and their hy-
brids and may indicate insufficient light. This blight is also known as PHYLLOST-
ICTA: the names apply to two different sexual stages of the same fungus. 


PHYLLOSTICTA SYMPTOMS: Spotting from Phyllosticta may start anywhere on the
leaf or pseudobulb. The lesions are tiny, yellow and slightly sunken. As they
enlarge, they become round to oval and more sunken, especially if the infection is
on the leaves. With age, they turn tan to dark brown and develop a slightly raised,
red to purple-black margin. Eventually, tiny black, raised spore structures develop
in the center of the spots. Individual spots are about ¼ in across. Severely infected
leaves may drop prematurely. Its presence may indicate insufficient light. This
blight is also known as Guignardia; the names apply to two different sexual stages
of the same fungus. 


SEPTORIA SYMPTOMS: The tiny spots may start on either leaf surface as sunken,
yellow lesions. They continue to enlarge, becoming dark brown to black, circular
or irregular lesions. Spots may merge to form large, irregular patches on the leaf.
Heavily infected leaves fall prematurely. 


TREATMENT: Remove infected leaves with a sterile instrument and reduce leaf wet-
ness. Spray with a systemic fungicide such as thiophanate methyl (Cleary’s 3336
or Banrot) or a protectant fungicide like Mancozeb, following label instructions.
Alternate systemic and protectant fungicides.


PREVENTION: Good sanitation with good air movement. Reduce leaf wetness, water
on the leaves may lead to infection. If the fungus is a continuing problem, monthly
fungicide sprays may offer effective prevention. 


READ MORE: Dr. Martin Motes has an excellent article on treating the Dreaded
Thai Disease (Guignardia or Phyllosticta) that afflicts vandas.
Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 14
Botrytis Petal Blight
SYMPTOMS: Very small, black or light brown, spots on the flowers. The spots may
enlarge and cover the entire flower. If conditions are moist, a gray fungal growth
may appear on severely infected or decaying flowers.

TREATMENT: Remove infected flowers, then spray with a protectant fungicide like
Daconil. In enclosed areas, the smoke bomb Exotherm Termil (Daconil) can be
used though be careful because this can coat the inside of your heater and cause
firing problems. Always follow label instructions. This fungus is common in the
environment and cannot be eradicated. 



PREVENTION: Remove infected flowers since these are reservoirs of infection. Infec-
tion may be reduced through careful sanitation, increased air circulation, reduced
humidity and warmer night temperatures (>68F).

Microfungus—Microfungus or
Phalaenopsis Chlorotic Spot Virus or
Tiny Mites?
FUNGUS OR VIRUS OR MITES? We’ve heard this malady described as all three.
Tom Nasser reports that microfungus is an odd life form which is fungal with ex-
tra DNA particles, though it is not a virus. Courtney Hackney believes its cause to
be broad mites that require a microscope to see. 


SYMPTOMS: In the order of appearance, the leaves display yellow chlorotic spots,
then more defined yellow spotting that can grow into elongated yellow streaking,
then pitting, and finally large areas of grayish tissue collapse. It can be confused
with mesophyllic cell collapse caused by watering with cold water, although this
weathers to dark rather than light sunken spots in phals. Paph infections weather
to darkish sunken spots. Cattleya may have small black spots on the leaves.


From Bob Gordon Culture of the Phalaenopsis Orchid: “sometimes a condition
prevails that is caused by a systemic infection of microfungi. As there are literally
hundreds of these, the symptoms vary from plant to plant. Some of the more com-
mon are a spotty, ill-defined chlorosis; a streaky chlorosis beginning at the edge of
the leaf where it looks as if the leaf edge had been burned with a match or candle;
a red-brown coloration appearing at the apical third or half of the lower leaves fol-
lowed by a dehydrated and senescent (old) appearance and also mesophyll tissue
collapse where deep pitting becomes apparent on the surface of the leaves. This
latter condition can also be caused by cold water and by virus infections. How-
ever, in the latter instance, the pitting is usually dark-brown to black in appearance
rather than the white to light fawn caused by fungi.”
TREATMENT: If you believe it is tiny mites, spray with a miticide at the first sign of
chlorotic spotting. If you believe it is a fungus, follow the recommendations from
Alan Koch of Gold Country Orchids: spray first with Banrot plus Aliette, then
Cleary’s plus Subdue, then Banrot plus Subdue. These sprays/drenches should be
7 days apart in summer and 10 to 14 days apart in winter, all at label strength. The
combination of fungicides results in a synergistic effect. Follow all label instruc-
tions and wear protective equipment.
 Sarasota Orchid Society • ORCHID VIEW • May 2012 • Page 15
ORCHID SHOW AND SALE—May 12th & 13th
VOLUSIA COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY, Inc.
The Volusia County Orchid Society presents its 17th annual Orchid Show and Sale on Saturday
and Sunday May 12th–13th , 2012 (Mother’s Day weekend), in the air-conditioned Hester Ex-
hibit Hall at the Volusia County Fairgrounds, 3100 East New York Avenue (SR-44 just east of I-4,
exit 118A) DeLand, Florida. Hours are 9:00am to 4:00 pm both days.

Beautiful orchid exhibits reflect this year’s theme “Orchid Memories” Numerous orchid grow-
ers offer thousands of orchids for sale as well as growing supplies, orchid related items, corsages
and floral arrangements. Orchid repotting and dividing services are offered for a nominal fee.
Raffles, demonstrations, lectures and workshops are held each day. Refreshments will also be
available.

Admission is $4 per person, children 10 years or younger enter free! Members of any Orchid
Society or Garden Club receive $1.00 off entry fee with valid membership card. Lots of free park-
ing, handicapped accessible.

See spectacular orchid displays created by commercial growers, orchid societies and amateur
exhibitors. This is an American Orchid Society judged event. Enjoy an Art Exhibit of orchid in-
spired art works created locally by high school art students.

Information can also be found by visiting the Volusia County Orchid Society’s website: www.
vcosonline.org

Here’s a special society coupon for you to use. Please join us for the fun!!
P.O. Box 19895
Sarasota, FL  34276-2895

www.sarasotaorchidsociety.org

The monthly Hospitality

Committee will provide
the following at our
monthly meetings:

Cheese, Crackers, Fruit,

Hot Coffee, and fixings
Iced tea (sweet and
unsweetened), Water

Any additions to the

table will be greatly
appreciated.

Contributions can be
made at the table.

Hospitality:
Judy Robertson
941-926-1819

PLEASE BRING FOOD