How do I care for my Cattleya?
Cattleya is a genus native to Central and South America. In the wild, the orchid grows on branches and trunks of trees as an epiphyte. Cattleya’s flowers are available in many colours, produce a wonderful scent, and can grow between 5 to 15 centimetres long. There is a good reason why it is sometimes referred to as the queen of the orchids. Cattleya’s flower is often used for bridal bouquets. However, it is also available as a houseplant thanks to propagation.
light
In a bright spot, but no direct sunlight.
temperature
Cattleya loves a temperature between 16 and 25 degrees Celcius. At night approx. 16 ºC, reduce temperature after the growing season till 14 ºC
water
This orchid should not be overwatered. It is sufficient to water it once every seven to nine days. Water cattleya only once its soil is almost dry.
Fertiliser orchid
- Twice per month, feed cattleya our special orchid fertiliser ‘Groei en bloei’. One level teaspoon per one litre of water. In February, May, and September, sprinkle one level teaspoon of ‘Grondverbeteraar’ (soil improver) once over the potting mix. The orchid does not require fertiliser from November up to and including January. Both products are sold in our shop.
Spraying flower buds
The humidity in a home can be low during the winter and summer months. Spray the smallest buds daily to prevent them from drying out and not flowering.
soil
It is important to replant cattleya once every three to four years in orchid potting mix. For cattleya, Pantropica has put together a well-aerated mix of bark, coco, and peat. This mix is available at our shop. Please do this if the orchid has finished flowering (preferably in springtime).
After flowering
Please do cut off the stem at the bottom if it is past flowering. Put the plant in a spot as bright as possible. The orchid will generate another stem from a new shoot. This will take approximately eight to twelve months.