How to grow Cattleya orchids at home
Today, let's talk about the topic of growing Cattleya orchids and the techniques for cultivating them at home. Here is a detailed introduction.
Cattleya orchids thrive in a semi-shaded, warm, and humid environment, and it is most suitable to cultivate them using humus soil and garden soil. During the maintenance period, ensure they receive more than 4 hours of sunlight daily, while keeping the temperature between 15-25 degrees. Remember to use diluted ripe fertilizer every 15 days and water according to the water requirements of different seasons. I'll give you a specific introduction below.
1. Light and Temperature
Cattleya orchids require minimal light, with more than 4 hours of sunlight daily being sufficient. In summer, avoid direct exposure to strong sunlight, and in winter, when temperatures are low, place them in a well-lit indoor position for cultivation. The suitable growing temperature for Cattleya orchids is between 15-25 degrees. In summer, when temperatures are high, take measures to shade and cool to ensure the temperature does not exceed 35 degrees; in winter, when temperatures are low, take insulation measures to keep the temperature above 10 degrees.
2. Water Requirements
Cattleya orchids need a lot of water to grow. When the leaves and soil are dry, water them promptly to keep them moist. Water every 3-5 days in spring and autumn; in summer, when temperatures are high and water evaporates quickly, water once a day; in winter, when temperatures are low, reduce the amount of watering, watering once every 5-10 days is sufficient. Additionally, watering 1-2 times a day during the blooming period helps extend the flowering period.
3. Fertilizing Management
The fertilizer used for Cattleya orchids must be diluted ripe fertilizer, usually a compound fertilizer of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply it once every 10-15 days, using the fertilizer in the soil, and be sure to apply thin layers of fertilizer frequently to avoid excessive nutrition.
4. Pest and Disease Prevention
Cattleya orchids are prone to pest and disease problems during growth, with anthracnose being a common occurrence. When this happens, it is recommended to use carbendazim for disinfection and fungicide treatment. Using diluted carbendazim every 10-15 days can prevent the occurrence of pests and diseases.
The above is the knowledge and skills of how to grow Cattleya orchids at home and the techniques for cultivating them. I hope this article can be of some help to you!