Can I use insecticidal soap?

Yes, you can use insecticidal soap, but be careful to follow the label instructions. Rubbing alcohol is often safer and easier for small infestations.

Will these bugs kill my orchid?

If left untreated, they will drain the plant of energy and eventually kill it. Catching them early makes them much easier to manage.

Why are there brown bumps on my Dendrobium orchid?

Check these first

Scrape a bump with your nail to see if it is an insect.
Check the undersides of all leaves.
Look for sticky residue on the leaves.

Likely causes

Scale infestation
Most likely
How to tell: Small, hard, brown bumps appear on the leaves or stems that can be scraped off with a fingernail. The leaves may look sticky or develop yellow spots.
What to do: Dab the scale insects with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to kill them on contact. Repeat this process every 5 to 7 days until no more bumps appear.
Poor air circulation
Possible
How to tell: The plant is kept in a very stagnant, humid area. Pests often thrive in these conditions.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with better airflow. You can also use a small fan nearby to keep the air moving gently.

When to worry

Scale can spread quickly to other plants, so isolate your orchid immediately. It is serious if the plant starts losing leaves or looks stunted.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant clean by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth occasionally. Inspect your orchid every time you water to catch new pests early.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your dendrobium orchid.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Can I use insecticidal soap?: Yes, you can use insecticidal soap, but be careful to follow the label instructions. Rubbing alcohol is often safer and easier for small infestations.
Will these bugs kill my orchid?: If left untreated, they will drain the plant of energy and eventually kill it. Catching them early makes them much easier to manage.