Method of Growing Cattleya Orchid
Cattleya orchids, with their elegant, sword-shaped leaves and refined, elegant blooms, have become a favorite indoor ornamental plant among flower enthusiasts. As a typical terrestrial orchid variety, its cultivation requires mastery of key elements such as temperature control and light management. This article will systematically analyze the secrets of growing Cattleya orchids from environmental control to daily maintenance.
Four Core Elements of Cattleya Orchid Care
Scientific Temperature and Light Control
The optimal growth temperature range is 15-28°C. When temperatures exceed 35°C in summer, ventilation should be enhanced to cool down, and it is necessary to maintain temperatures above 10°C in winter for overwintering. In spring and autumn, full sunlight is required, while in summer, a shading rate of 60% is needed, and direct sunlight can be accepted in winter.
Accurate Water Management
Adopt a ' moisten pot + thorough watering' combined mode: in summer, mist the pot every 2 days and water thoroughly twice a month on overcast days; in spring and autumn, moisten the pot 3 times a week and water thoroughly once a month; in winter, moisten the pot once a week and stop thorough watering. Water should be supplemented when the surface of the substrate is slightly dry.
Rational Planning of Nutrient Supply
Method of Growing Cattleya Orchid
It is recommended to use a mixed substrate of pine bark (40%), volcanic rock (30%), and decomposed leaf soil (30%), and use slow-release orchid-specific fertilizer as the base fertilizer. During the growing season, a diluted orchid nutrient solution (2000 times) can be added monthly.
Techniques for Dividing Cattleya Orchids
The best time for dividing is around the spring equinox, choosing robust mother plants with 3-5 pseudobulbs. Before operation, stop watering for 7 days, use disinfected tools for division, and apply carbendazim powder to the wounds. Place the new plants in a scattered light environment for maintenance after potting.
Guide to Preventing and Treating Diseases and Pests in Cattleya Orchids
Emergency Treatment Plan for Diseases
In the early stage of (T-J) disease, use a 70% methyl thiophanate solution (800 times) for spraying, and leaf spot disease can be treated with a 50% carbendazim solution (500 times). Diseased leaves should be cut off immediately and disposed of in a centralized manner.