 |
Mailing Address
East Everglades
Orchid Society
15220 SW 232 St.
Miami, FL 33170
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Cattleya Culture
by David Schaffter
|
 Cattleyas are epiphytic orchids found growing in trees. They are considered air plants. They have developed water-storage organs called pseudobulbs and have large, fleshy roots covered with a spongy, water-retentive velamen. Cattleyas do best when potted in a porous, free-draining, open mixture of rock, tree-fern fiber and bark. If you live in a humid area, clay pots might be better than plastic, since clay tends to dry out better.
LIGHT
Cattleyas and their hybrids take 30% to 50% full sun. Too much light will burn the leaves. Too little light will give poor flower production and dark green leaves. When high light is given, more air movement is necessary to keep the leaves from getting too hot. In your house, an east, west, or shaded south window will do. A screened patio is good as long as they don't get too hot.
|
|
|
|  TEMPERATURE
Cattleyas tolerate temperatures up to 95°- 100° if air circulation, humidity, and shading are increased. Likewise, they can take short spells of 40° if they are protected from the wind and rain. Cattleyas do best with daytime temperatures of 70°-85°. Nights of 55° to 60° are best. Most cattleyas require a 10° to 20° difference between night and day. WATER Cattleyas do best with 50%-60% humidity. Mature plants need to dry out between waterings. Smaller plants require more constant water. On your patio, drench orchid 2-3 times a week if it is dry. In the rainy season, hold back on the watering unless they dry out. In your house, mist the plant in the morning and set on a tray of pebbles with water in tray. This keeps up the humidity. Water thoroughly once the orchid dries out.
FERTILIZER
Cattleyas require a regular fertilizing schedule since the potting media offers the orchid little nourishment. In the summer, fertilize every 2 weeks with a 20-20-20 formula. Orchids potted in a fir bark mixture need a 30-10-10 formula. In the winter, cut back on the fertilizer to once a month. About a month before your cattleya blooms, fertilize with a bloom booster, such as a 9-45-10 formula. This will enhance the blooms to be stronger and more numerous. Smaller cattleyas or seedlings need a more constant, dilute fertilizer.
 POTTING
Repot your cattleyas when the rhizome grows over the edge of the pot or when the potting medium breaks down. The best time to repot is in the spring while new growth is emerging or just after flowering. Cattleyas usually take a medium grade well-drained potting mix. Tree fern, bark, charcoal, and/or porous rock are commonly used in different concentrations. Clay orchid pots allow mixture to dry out and ventilate. Select a pot that will allow 2-3 years of growth. Place orchid against the edge so new growth grows toward the center of the pot. Cut off any dead roots and secure orchid with a clip to keep it stationary. Reduce light and water until plant becomes established with numerous new roots.
|
 |
|
