Cattleya Care

Cattleyas are often also called the corsage orchid. Their flowers can be pretty big - up to about 8 inches. They are also often fragrant. The only downside to Cattleyas is that their flowers only last 2-3 weeks usually.

If possible, buy a Cattleya with either Laelia or another kind of orchid bred with it. You'll be able to tell these, because instead of it saying Catt. -name- it'll say BLC or SLC or LC. Flowers on these aren't as big, but you get more flowers and more bloom time!

Preferences:

Humidity: Humididy is very, very important to Cattleyas. They are epiphytic, meaning not only do they have pseudobulbs, but they also have big roots that like to climb out of the pot. Mist these roots when you can.

Light and Air: Cattleyas like bright light - at least a half day, and often can be grown outside with 1/2 sun, 1/2 shade.

Watering: Cattleyas like to dry out between waterings almost completely.

Temperature: Cattleyas like temperatures during the day of 70-90, and night 60-75.

Potting: Repot with medium or big bark every 2 years. Use medium bark when the plant has smaller roots and leaves, and big bark when roots and leaves are bigger.