I, too, wondered if it might be what we call "fungus gnats," or even one of
the odd-looking ants, but either way the Orthene should work. If they are
seriously nested in the medium, it would be a good idea to soak them in a
dishpan of water [water level slightly higher than the pots] before
spraying. Kenni

"Larry" wrote in message
. ..
Sounds more like gnats?

Larry


"Steve" wrote in message
...

Wait a minute Kenni. Your advice is good if Sandra has mealies but I
question if she really does.
If Sandra only sees mealies when they come to the surface after
watering,
what do you think?
Sandra, do you have mealy bugs on the leaves of your plants too? If not,
are you really sure of what they are?

Steve


Kenni Judd wrote:

Orthene usually works for mealies, but these days you must read the
labels.
The active ingredient is acephate [also sold as Isotox and under other
brand
names]. You need one that lists acephate as 75% in strength [in the
concentrate]. It has been coming out in more dilute concentrations,
lately,
and these are not only ineffective, they are likely to create resistant
strains. Good growing,
-- Kenni Judd Juno Beach Orchids http://www.jborchids.com "sandra"
wrote in message
oups.com...

Hello, I've recently noticed that after I water a few mealy bugs come
to the surface of my orchids...
What should I do to get rid of them.
I've heard of X-clude and Orthene, but I would really appreciate some
personal input
Thanks, Sandra