How to Care for Cattleya orchids During Blooming Period
Cattleya orchids, with their elegant and luxurious flower posture, have become a popular choice for home cultivation. When the sturdy flower spikes burst into bloom with clusters of flowers, scientific care methods are directly related to the观赏周期 (viewing period) and plant health. This article will systematically analyze the key points of care during the blooming period and fertilization taboos, helping you master essential care techniques.
Key Points for Caring for Cattleya Orchids During Blooming Period
1. Precise Light Management
It is recommended to place the plant on an east or north-facing balcony to receive the soft morning light before 10 a.m. and use a shading net to filter the intense midday sunlight. You can judge the light intensity by observing the leaves: yellow-green leaves indicate sufficient light, while deep green leaves need more light.
2. Accurate Temperature and Humidity Control
Keep the temperature between 18-22°C during the day and 15-18°C at night, with a day-night temperature difference of 5°C or less. Use a humidifier to maintain 60% air humidity and be careful to avoid directly spraying water mist on the flower buds. You can use the pot-in-pot method: fill the outer pot with moist sphagnum moss, which can both retain moisture and prevent waterlogging.
3. Scientific Watering Techniques
Use the "weight-judging method" to determine the watering time: water the plant when the pot is 1/3 lighter. It is recommended to use the immersion method for watering, placing the pot in a water basin with 3 cm of water for 15 minutes, then removing and draining the excess water. Special attention should be paid to keeping the flowers dry, and you can use a straw to wrap around the base of the flower stem for precise watering.
Taboos for Fertilizing Cattleya Orchids During Blooming Period
During the bud formation stage (before the flower buds show color), you can spray a 0.1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution every 10 days. Stop fertilizing immediately when the first flower opens. Incorrect fertilization can lead to three major problems: ① an increase of 57% in flower deformation rate, ② a reduction of 3-5 days in the duration of a single flower, and ③ an increased risk of root rot by 40%. Remedial measures: immediately rinse the substrate with clean water three times and cut off the damaged flower stems.
Through meticulous care during the blooming period, the viewing period of Cattleya orchids can be extended to 45-60 days. After flowering, promptly cut off the flower spike and supplement with slow-release fertilizer to restore the plant's vitality. Mastering these core techniques will allow you to enjoy the exquisite beauty of this "Queen of Orchids" year after year.