CATTLEYA

The Cattleya (CAT-lee-ah) is the quintessential corsage orchid.  Their flowers are immediately recognized as an orchid. Cattleya flowers are large, long-lasting, and are immensely satisfying to grow.

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TEMPERATURE

Grow your Cattleya with intermediate temperatures (55°-60° F/13°-15.6°C) at night with warmer temperatures (70°-85°F/21°-29° C) during the day.

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LIGHT

Cattleyas require bright light (2000-4000 fc). You may hear the phrase “Cattleya light” as the standard for many orchids with bright light requirements. Providing enough light is vital to blooming your Cattleya. If your windowsill is insufficient, artificial light works fantastically.

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HUMIDITY

Humidity levels between 40-70% are ideal for this orchid. Use a humidifier if necessary and a fan set to low to provide air movement. Home growers: remember 50% is the maximum recommendation. Easily track humidity levels with a humidistat.

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WATER

Allow potting mix to dry almost completely between watering. Watch the lead (newest) pseudobulb to be sure that it remains plump. During the winter months cut back slightly on water.

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FERTILIZATION

Cattleyas are moderate feeders. Apply balanced fertilizer three out of four weeks. On the fourth week, flood the potting media to rinse fertilizer salts. If the orchid is potted in bark, use a high nitrogen fertilizer (9-3-6).

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POTTING & MEDIA

Under pot Cattleyas: large Cattleyas = 4-6″ pot, mini Cattleyas = 3-4 ” pot. Wait to pot until new roots are growing. Place backbulb (oldest pseudobulb) at the edge of the pot and the newest growth towards the center of the using medium grade fir-bark-based potting media.

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TIPS

Cattleyas have been heavily hybridized. For best results, look for award-winning clones. Full-size Cattleyas can grow very large, if growing space is at a premium, choose a miniature Cattleya.

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the quintessential orchid

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