Cattleya Orchid

This orchid should be watered every 7 days, while taking into consideration weather and growing conditions. To make sure the Cattleya orchid is watered properly, allow the surface of the soil to dry out between waterings. Controlling the amount of water will reduce the possibility of crown and root rot. To do so, test the moisture of the potting mix with a surface fingertip test.

Cattleya orchid prefers bright, indirect light in order to photosynthesize. Too much direct sunlight will burn its fragile leaves. It should be placed in an area that receives bright, indirect light from 10am to 4pm. If it is not placed in a location with enough light, there will be fewer flowers and its foliage will be less lush. If the leaves yellow or turn brown, that may also be an indication that it isn't getting enough light.

Cattleya orchids enjoy warm temperatures with a minimum of 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (13 to 16 degrees Celsius) at night and maximum temperatures of up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) during the day. Avoid temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) as this is considered too cold for the Cattleya orchid.

This orchid prefers a humidity of at least 50% and no more than 70%, with temperatures always kept between 65-85 degrees Fahrenheit (18-29 degrees Celcius). In very hot climates, the humidity might need to be increased artificially. Mist the leaves with room temperature water to give them some extra hydration. A pebble tray or a humidifier may also be used to increase the humidity in the environment.

Cattleya orchids require a loose, porous soil that is free draining. Use a soilless mix, with two parts peat moss, two parts fir bark and one part perlite to make sure that the soil does not compact and hold onto water. Or, you can also use an orchid mix with similar proportions that already contains fertilizers.

Cattleya orchids require a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that will provide all the necessary nutrients for the plant. Fertilize your orchid with a 20-10-20 fertilizer every two weeks during the active growing period and reduce the frequency during the rest period. During late fall and winter season, fertilize only once every 3 weeks.

Cattleya orchids are particularly prone to pests, like mites, mealybugs, and scales. To prevent these pests, keep the orchid clean by regularly checking and wiping its leaves with a damp cloth and inspecting its root system. Regularly change the potting medium and avoid leaving the orchid in wet conditions. To get rid of existing pests, use cotton swabs dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the mealybugs. To get rid of mites and scale insects, use horticultural oils or a natural insecticide.

Cattleya orchids should be repotted every 1-2 years to ensure they can access the necessary nutrients from the soil. The ideal time to repot a Cattleya orchid is as soon as it is done flowering. Choose a shallow pot with well-draining holes to ensure that the orchid's roots don't remain wet for too long. Use a potting mix designed for orchids or a combination of two parts fir bark, one part peat moss, and one part perlite.

Cattleya orchids don't usually require pruning, as this type of orchid is grown for its spectacular blooms rather than foliage. Once the flowers have finished blooming, you can cut the base of the stem right above the leaf node. This will allow for new flowers to grow out of the same stem in the future.

Mulching is not necessary for Cattleya orchids, but organic material such as pine bark mulch can be used to help keep moisture in the soil and prevent weeds from growing. Make sure to mulch lightly or it may affect the orchid's health.

Cattleya orchids can be propagated by division. Wait until the plant finishes blooming and then carefully cut the rhizomes that are growing between the plants. Each piece should have at least one or two sets of leaves. Gardeners can mix small amounts of stump of the plant, so it will re-rooted and propagated into a new orchid. Make sure to replant the sections in the same soil and keep the grow area stabilized.

Cattleya orchids are large plants that need some kind of support to hold up their weight. You can use plant stakes or bamboo stakes to do this. Make sure to tie them up before the stems become too long and floppy.

Cattleya orchids need to undergo a rest period after flowering. During this time, reduce watering and fertilizer. Make sure to keep the plant in a cool, shady area. Do not expose it to too much light or it may suffer damage or sunburn.

Cattleya orchids are not toxic to pets, so they can safely be grown indoors. Make sure to keep the foliage away from pets as some varieties may cause mild skin irritation.