Care for Cattleya Orchids
Cattleya Orchids are perhaps the most flamboyant of the orchid species with colourful, showy flowers and a delicate fragrance. From the thousands of hybrids, we’ve chosen the best plants that are easy to grow and feature spectacular, fragrant blooms.
WATERING
DO NOT OVERWATER!
Plants should be watered about once every two weeks, and be allowed to dry out before the next watering. The secret is not to over-water to maintain a good root system.
Never allow plant to stand in water or allow water to accumulate in the crown of the plant to avoid disease.
FEEDING
Fertilize using a complete orchid fertilizer, such as a 20-10-20 blend, mixed at half the recommended strength. Use on a regular basis about every other watering.
LIGHT and TEMPERATURE
Plants grow best in bright windows, with no direct sunlight. Temperatures should range between 70 to 85 degrees F during the day and be above 60 degrees F at night. When the plant is in bloom, it is fine to display in a prominent spot with indirect to bright light.
HUMIDITY AND CIRCULATION
If needed, provide good humidity by placing the plant on a bed of small rocks, filled with water. The leaves, (not the flowers) can also be misted. Provide some air movement if possible.
PROLONGING BLOOMS
After the flowers fade, cut the spike just above the third node from the base, and a flowering offshoot may reform in about 2 months.
REPOTTING
Repot in the milder months of spring or early summer after blooming season, using an orchid bark mix. Select the pot size according to the root mass, not the top size.