I found Bayer 3 in 1 is the best for mites!I wear a mask and gloves when using it, but it sure works. Please read the label carefully.

I have personally found that insecticidal soap works best for me. I've been able to kill many bugs with the soap. The brand that is sold around me is Garden Safe. The big thing I was always told is whatever you decide to use make sure it's safe for ornamental plants. Also anytime I have ever encountered bugs I've removed the orchid from the media, sprayed thoroughly from top to bottom atleast over a course of 2-3 days. Then I repot in fresh media and go from there. I've always been concerned that bugs lay eggs in the media and the problem starts all over again because the soap not killing the dormant eggs. Hope this helps a little.

I always use alcohol mixed with some oil. Does coat the leaves but hasn't hurt anything. I found it the best remedy but I do repeat spraying a few times. If the plant is small you can wash it off in the sink with some soapy water.

They are a pain and I do get them each year on some orchids and my house plants. I didn't have any better results using toxic sprays.

Jane

Thanks. Before I try the "big stuff", I would like to see what I can do with the simple stuff.

Jane

What kind of oil do you use and in what proportions - alcohol to oil?

Kevin

Kevin, I'm embarassed to say I don't really measure. I use a small hand sprayer (the little colored ones)fill about 1/2 alcohol, about a 1/4 Canola Oil (have used Olive), squirt of Dawn detergent and fill the rest with hot water and shake. I don't feel the proportion is critical.

I have used more oil on scale and on bad cases of mites, more alcohol.

I have lost buds but most times I did not. I've had a bad infestation on a plant where I really oiled it up and it worked but I did wash the plant a few days later in the sink with soap & water. This was a 'really' bad infestation and I thought the plant was a gonner.

I've used various oils - whatever I had handy. I don't think it matters except you need to add some detergent to help it spread. If you watch the insects as you spray, you will see them get stuck in the oil as the webs get coated. They can't move and eventually they die.

Sorry I couldn't be more helpful with details. I don't think it matters that much. I have had the best results with the oil/alcohol comb over Bayer, Safers Soap, and chemical sprays.

I have a bunch of houseplants which get covered each winter - Plumerias, Hybiscus, Ficus, Schefflera. No matter how I isolate, some orchids get them. I couldn't possibly deal with toxic sprays indoors each winter.

Now I'm in Florida - not a mite in sight - some fungal problems but I'm having luck with cinnamon oil and alcohol.

Jane

Thanks Jane. That's very helpful.

K