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Cranefly orchid · Tipularia discolor

Why are there holes in my Cranefly orchid leaves?

Cranefly orchids are a favorite snack for slugs and snails during the cool months when their single leaf is active. Check the underside of the leaf and the soil surface for these slimy visitors.

pests on a plant
Photo: Jules Verne Times Two, CC BY-SA 4.0

Check these first

  1. Inspect the leaf underside for tiny insects.
  2. Check the soil surface at night for slugs.
  3. Look for shiny slime trails near the pot.

Likely causes

  1. Slugs and snails

    Most likely

    How to tell: You will see irregular holes in the leaf or ragged edges. Look for shiny slime trails on the soil or the leaf surface.

    What to do: Pick them off by hand at night when they are active. You can also place a shallow dish of beer near the plant to trap them or use iron phosphate bait around the base.

  2. Aphids

    Possible

    How to tell: Small clusters of tiny green or black insects gather on the underside of the leaf or near the base. The leaf may look slightly distorted or sticky.

    What to do: Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove them. If they persist, spray the plant with a mild insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.

When to worry

A few small holes are usually fine, but heavy feeding can weaken the plant before it goes dormant. If the entire leaf is being consumed, take action immediately.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the area around your orchid clean of decaying plant debris where slugs like to hide. Check your plant regularly during the cool, damp months.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your cranefly 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 chemical pesticides?
It is best to avoid harsh chemicals on orchids. Stick to physical removal or organic baits to keep your plant healthy.
Do I need to worry about pests in summer?
No, the Cranefly orchid is dormant in summer and has no leaves above ground. Pests are only a concern during the fall and winter growth phase.

More problems with Cranefly orchid

Back to the Cranefly orchid guide

This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.