About the Cattleyas Orchids

Environment in the Wild

• Cattelyas are native to the rain forests of Argentina and Mexico. They are considered epiphytes, plants that live on another plant. They are not parasites but use the host plant for support while receiving nutrition from the air. Cattleya orchids prefer humid conditions and bright light. They are named after English horticulturist, William Cattley (1788-1835).

Environment in the Home

• Cattleya orchids need very high light levels to promote the flowers to bloom during the growing season. Then growing medium is also crucial to a healthy Cattleya orchid. Colorado State University Extension recommends a potting medium mixed with redwood bark chips, coarse charcoal or a commercial orchid mix. Place the orchid in an area in your home where it receives sun with some shade during the day. The Missouri Botanical Garden suggests an east-facing window. Day should be about 65 to 70 degrees and 58 to 60 degrees at night. Orchids grow well in humid conditions. Place a humidifier in the room or set the flower pot on a tray of gravel and water making sure the bottom of the pot never touches the water in the tray, as it could cause root rot.

Watering

• Do not over water the cattleya orchid. Water it twice a week during the growing season and once a week during dormancy. Place the potted orchid in the sink. Water with lukewarm water for 30 seconds and again 15 minutes later. Let it drain in the sink before placing back in its current location. Cattleyas should become dry between waterings and after the bloom period to promote the growth of healthy pseudobulbs. Check the soil's dryness by placing a wooden stick into the soil 1 inch deep. If the soil is damp wait a few a days before watering.

Feeding

• Fertilize the Cattleya orchid with a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20). Orchids will do well wFertilize the cattleya orchid with a balanced fertilizer, such as 20-20-20. Orchids do better with too little fertilizer than with too much. According to American Orchid Society, orchid growers have adopted the "weakly weekly" method. Dilute the monthly application recommended on the fertilizer's direction label by1/4 and apply once a week instead of once a month. For example, instead of applying 1 cup per month apply 1/4 cup once a week. Do not feed the orchid if the soil is dry. Water the soil first and then add the fertilizer fertilize followed by another watering to prevent the roots from burning.ith too little fertilizer than too much. According to American Orchid Society, orchid growers have adopted the "weakly weekly" method. Dilute the monthly application recommended on the fertilizer's direction label by one-fourth and apply once a week instead of once a month. For example, instead of applying one cup per month apply one-fourth cup once a week. Do not feed if the soil is dry. Water first and then fertilize followed by another watering to prevent the roots from burning.