A Tutorial for Cattleya Orchid Care

Potting

• Cattleya orchids are epiphytic plants that use their roots to absorb moisture and nutrients from the air around them. When grown indoors, Cattleya orchids must be planted in a coarse, well-draining potting mix that won't suffocate their roots. Use a commercial orchid potting mix or create your own by combining equal parts redwood bark, peat moss, ground volcanic rock and charcoal. Plant your Cattleya orchid in a plastic planting container with holes in the bottom and extra drainage slits on the sides; plant the orchid at the same level it was growing in its nursery container.

Sunlight and Temperature

• Cattleya are sun-loving orchids that perform best in very high light locations, according to the Colorado State University Extension. To ensure that your orchid blooms prolifically, position it near a west- or east-facing window where it can be exposed to a minimum of six hours of bright sunlight daily. Cattleya orchids are intolerant of extreme temperature changes; make sure to position your orchid at least 6 feet from heaters, air conditioners or drafts. For best results, set your thermostat to maintain an indoor temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Water and Fertilize

• Cattleya orchids must be watered and fertilized regularly to promote healthy foliage and flower development. Water your Cattleya orchid weekly; lay three ice cubes on the surface of the potting mix and allow them to melt. Feed the orchid monthly with a specially formulated orchid fertilizer, mixed and applied according to product instructions.

Repot

• Maintaining the health of your orchid's root system is essential to its long-term performance. For best results, repot Cattleya orchids and examine their roots every two to three years. Take the orchid from its planting container, discard the potting mix and rinse its root system under warm water until clean. Remove any roots that are brown, squishy or bad-smelling; cut problem roots from the plant with a sharp, sterile gardening knife. Cut cleanly between the root clumps to divide the orchid, if desired. Plant each division in an individual planting container in fresh orchid potting mix.