You might want to try Bayer tree and shrub as labeled, a change for most
orchid growers. Since you pour it around on the ground and let the roots
take it up the birds should be ok.

Pat


"Diana Kulaga" wrote in message
.. .
Well, about a week ago I gave the collection an Orthene shot. Thrips were
showing up, along with the occasional mealy. I was late this year - I
usually try to get ahead of the gardenia bushes, which of course are thrip
magnets. Naturally, I sprayed them too, and like everything else they are
due for a second shot in a few days.

Friday we were out on the patio for lunch, and there was a major commotion
*in* one of the gardenias, a huge one. Two cardinals chased away a blue
jay. You guessed it. There's a new nest in there! It will be fun watching
this play out. But.........

Now I can't do a follow-up on the gardenias. Suggestions? I know the
natural remedies. Think throwing soap, alcohol, etc, at it once will do
it, after the Orthene?

Diana