Question
I've just noticed a small worm on one of my orchids (the kind that has the sort of bulbous base and strappy leaves), and I've also noticed the old growth rapidly turning brown and then shriveling.  Can these two things be related?  Regardless, is that worm a friend or foe?  I'm an orchid rookie, to be sure, but don't want to lose the few I have!  I was told one in question is a Milto x Brassia hybrid, and the blossoms are gorgeous pale yellow spidery looking things that smell heavenly.  "Please help me!" she squeaked!

Answer
Hello Diana,

If there is a worm in your orchid pot that could be an indication that the potting media has broken down and should be replaced with new orchid media.  Not sure what kind of worm it is but there are some that feed on the roots and that may be the cause of an older growth dying.  

Get some orchid potting media at your local garden center and repot it.  You can use the current pot or buy a new one that is the next size larger, do not repot it into too large a pot as most orchids prefer being rootbound within the pot.  

Hope this helped.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.