HOW TO TAKE CARE OF CATTLEYAS

When it comes to orchid growing the first that comes into a person mind are Cattleya’s. Cattleyas are undoubtedly one of the most popular choices of orchid when it comes to flower arrangement, making corsages, flower bouquets as well as wedding bouquets. This is because these flowers evoke elegance and class. Its flowers can last long and its fragrant is captivating and sweet.
This orchid specie is name after William Cattley, a 19th century English horticulturist: who is the first one to cultivate these exotic orchids and in turn build a collection of exotic orchids in the world. And to avid growers around the world, the genus Cattleya represents a very interesting group of orchids with a broad spectrum of colors, types, species, and there a diversity of species than any other orchid groups.
Modern cattleyas consist of a complex group of hybrids created by combining other cattleya species to other cattleya species to produce a unique flower. Like most orchids, they are epiphytes or air plants. And because of these they developed water storage organs called pseudo bulbs which help them withstand dryness; they have large fleshy roots that can retain water for longer period before the next watering occur. They are used to being dry at the roots between watering. However, the frequency of watering depends on some factor, like the season, potting medium and size or country you are in; to judge the need of your orchid for watering, examine the plant itself. A cattleya plant that has the right kind of water has plump psuedobulbs with hard leathery leaves. Its roots are white, healthy and intact, and therefore it should be potted in a very porous free draining potting medium to prevent water stagnation and rooting of the roots.
Humidity plays an important role in the growing period of the plant. This can be done by misting the plants only in the morning to alleviate extreme heat during dry seasons. Air should always be moving around the plants to prevent fungal or bacterial infection, especially in high humidity area or cold season. If you have a green house the humidity could be controlled by wetting the floor. The evaporation of the water helps the plants to have a cool environment.
Light is most important factor in growing and blooming cattleyas. Enough sunlight is a must for growing plants but not direct sunlight where plants will be scorched to so much sun. The ideal sunlight is the morning rays. Or those that are under the shaded area in the home.
Sunlight Is one of the most important factors in growing and blooming cattleyas whether in a greenhouse setting or in the home. Morning sunlight to some sun must be given to the plants, but not direct sun in mid day. Leaves should be a medium green color a good indication that enough sunlight being proved for the plant.
Fertilization of cattleyas is important to growing plants. Where there is high temperature and light is not limited, the growth rate is faster, and feeding should be dome more frequently. A weekly application fertilizer is a must for growing plants. In rainy seasons a twice a month application is only necessary. Great care should be taken in to consideration when applying fertilizers. Too much fertilizers produces soft growth of the pseudobulbs. Excessive amounts of nitrogen encourage the production of more pseudobulbs and leaves with flowers. A thorough flushing every month with clear water is recommended to prevent salt build up on the orchids.
Contrary to other beliefs Cattleyas are easy to plant and easy to take care. It’s great for first time orchid hobbyist. And once you see those orchids blooms yourself the feelings are priceless a great achievement on your part. Enjoy!