Dear Doc:

I have been having a lot of root rot. It seems because of the rains the fungicide I have been using for the longest while is no longer working. What do you suggest I do?

Jamie

Dear Jamie:

What I do when it rains this much is to use a fungicide only every three days. It has worked in the past for me, but you have to remember that it is a wise idea to have two different fungicides in order that you may alternate between them after about four usages.

Dear Doc:

When the orchids start to yellow from the edge of the leaf inwards, what is the cause of the problem?

Lorna

Dear Lorna

It could mean that the plant needs flushing, having had too much fertiliser. Therefore, you have a build-up, in which case you would ease off the fertiliser and flush the plant with pure water.

Betty Ashley is an avid orchid enthusiast who has spent decades successfully cultivating orchids for herself, as well as for orchid lovers across the island, earning herself the title 'Orchid Doc'. Send your orchid questions and/or concerns to: bettymay@flowja.com.