Question
QUESTION: Dear Jim,
  I read your answer to Ann Marie about vanda bud drop but still have questions.
  I live in Tampa, Florida and have good luck with most all orchids including vandas.  There is one vanda that continually drops buds.  They form beautifully and then turn brown and dry up.  They get filtered light, the leaves and roots look very healthy.  I bought the plant in bloom so I know it will bloom but twice in the last 6 months this has happened to me.  Help. I don't know what variety it is but it is taller than average.
Thanks.
Lea


ANSWER: Hello Lea,

Living in Tampa, Florida you definitely can grow a lot of different orchids.  While I am not certain why this one vandas buds wither and fall off, I suspect it might be possibly be due to a fungal rot caused by wetness over night.  Flowers and buds are very susceptible to fungus attacks when they remain wet during night time, starting out as small brown spots and slowly growing larger until it covers the bud or flower.  

You can help minimize this by placing it where it will be exposed to light breezes.  

Hope this helps.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.




---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks, Jim.  Is there an anti-fungal that you recommend I use?
Lea


Answer
Hi Lea,

Sorry for not writing back sooner!  I totally missed your question.  

There are many anti-fungal products on the market and I'm not certain which ones are available in Tampa.  I'd suggest going to a local nursery or garden center and ask them for a fungicide that is recommended for orchids.  Be sure to follow the instructions on how to use it.  

Good luck.

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.