kat-lee-ah

Family

Orchidaceae

Origin

Costa Rica

Environment

The cattleya orchids like bright light and will not flower without plenty of light. They can even be acclimated to some direct sunlight, although avoid direct summer sunlight. In the right light conditions, the leaves are apple green. Darker leaves can indicate too little light, while yellow or brown leaves can indicate too much direct sunlight.

Water the orchids enough to keep them moist but not soggy. Soggy plants tend to rot. You can prevent this by using a chunky bark medium or other gritty soil that doesn't hold onto moisture. These orchid plants need 80 percent humidity, In order to raise the level of humidity, spray Vanda orchids with cool water by using a spraying bottle or by a humidifier or spritzing the air. They flourish under overhead irrigation and bright sunlight.

Description

Cattleya Orchids are some of the most beautiful orchids in the world. Their stunning colors make them beloved jewels of the jungle. They grow in the upper story of the jungle forest canopy and are epiphytes.

The cattleya group is known for large, showy, and sometimes fragrant flowers. Cattleyas, with huge flowers that can measure 8 inches across and come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. They will flower reliably once, or even twice, a year , given good care.& culture,

Potting & Media

The best way to grow Cattleyas is in open baskets with no substrate. To start with, weave the roots through the basket slots and wire the stem base in place with plant wire

Fertilize

Use a balanced (such as 20-20-20) fertilizer applied full strength once a week during warm weather or use a one-quarter-strength solution at every watering. During cool or cloudy weather, apply fertilizer once every two to four weeks. Use a high-phosphorus fertilizer (such as 10-30-20) every third application to promote flowering. Remember; never fertilize an orchid that is completely dry, because this can cause major damage to the roots. You should always water your orchid very thoroughly once a month so that the excess fertilizer build-up can be removed.

Landscape Use

Makes excellent hanging plants from tress or baskets.

Also see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bV2obbskDFk