Care Catasetum Orchid for begginers

Catasetum Orchid

A large number of species in the genus Catasetum are known for their unusual waxy flowers. This deciduous orchid naturally sheds leaves during hibernation. There are many differences in appearance between the species of Catasetum, but one feature they all have in common is the fact that they produce male or female flowers, which are less alike. The male flowers have an anatomical trigger to forcefully push pollen onto visiting bees.

Catasetum Orchid


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How to grow Catasetum orchids

The best way to grow them is to keep them as houseplants.

Light

As with most orchids, Catasetums are quite particular about the light they need. Too much you can see the leaves start to turn brown from scorching, too little you won’t see the leaves in full bloom.

During the early growing period, they should be placed in a bright location, but out of direct sunlight all day. At the end of the flowering period, they can handle a little more direct sunlight, and this will harden and strengthen the pseudobulbs.

The amount of light and moisture your plants receive will affect whether male or female flowers are produced. Normally, a place with lots of light and low humidity will cause female flowers to develop.

Soil

During the growing season, using a richer potting mix with something like water-retaining sphagnum moss can be a good choice.

Drinking water

The right moisture balance is very important for all orchids. Catasetum, with its large pseudobulbs, need the opportunity to store plenty of water during their growing season.

During this period, you will need to water more often. Usually, anything from twice a day to once a week will be required, depending on the temperature. Towards the end of their growth period, you should be able to reduce this number a bit.

When your orchids lose their leaves and go into dormancy, you should only water them if you notice that the pseudobulbs are starting to wither. The roots are best kept dry during this period and if watering is required, no more than once a month.

Orchids should never be placed in a waterlogged pot, so a good balance needs to be achieved. Fungal and bacterial diseases and rot can develop if the Catasetum is too wet. Some enthusiasts place their orchid pots in a tray full of gravel before watering to combat this problem.

Temperature and humidity

Catasetum are both native to tropical regions. They prefer warmer conditions and ideal daytime temperatures will range from 70 to 100 degrees F. During their growing period, they will do better if temperatures are above 80 F.

Ideally, nighttime temperatures should not fall below 55 degrees F. It is not surprising that these orchids are not frost tolerant.

They like a humidity level of around 40 to 60% and good airflow. These species can be susceptible to spider mite infestations. By keeping humidity levels higher and ensuring good airflow, this can help prevent this problem from developing. Humidity can be reduced during their dormant phase.

Fertilizer

Regular fertilization during their growing phase will help keep the Catasetum pseudobulbs strong and healthy. A high-quality, diluted fertilizer should be used, and doing this every week won’t hurt. Choose one that is high in nitrogen.

Grown in containers

Keeping your Catasetum Orchids in indoor containers will ensure the best results. Unless you live in an area that is too hot and humid, they will struggle in outdoor environments.

Hanging containers, growing them in racks, or keeping them on elevated platforms will help ensure good airflow is achieved.

It’s not necessary, but you can repot them annually to encourage healthy growth at the start of their growth phase.

At this point, division of the orchids can occur using the split pseudobulbs to create a new plant.

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