Cattleya Orchids

Cattleya orchids are a popular and beautiful orchid species that are beloved by collectors and enthusiasts all over the world. These striking plants are known for their large, colorful flowers and distinctive fragrance, and they have a rich history that dates back to their discovery in the early 19th century. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the origin and cultivation of cattleya orchids.

Origin:

Cattleya orchids are native to Central and South America, where they grow in a wide variety of habitats, from high altitude cloud forests to lowland rainforests. The first cattleya orchid was discovered in 1817 in Brazil by the English horticulturist William Cattley, after whom the genus is named. The original plant was a specimen of Cattleya labiata, which had been shipped to England along with other tropical plants from Brazil.

Since then, numerous species and hybrids of cattleya orchids have been discovered and cultivated, and they have become one of the most popular and widely grown orchid genera in the world.

Cultivation:

Cattleya orchids are relatively easy to grow and are a great choice for beginners who are looking to get started with orchid cultivation. However, they do require specific conditions in order to thrive.

Light:

Cattleya orchids require bright, indirect light in order to grow and flower properly. They should be placed in a bright, sunny spot, but should be protected from direct sunlight, which can burn their leaves and flowers.

Temperature:

Cattleya orchids prefer warm temperatures, with a range of 20-30°C during the day and 15-20°C at night. They can tolerate cooler temperatures for short periods, but should not be exposed to temperatures below 10°C.

Watering:

Cattleya orchids should be watered thoroughly when the top layer of their potting mix is dry to the touch. They should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings, but should not be allowed to completely dry out. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure that the potting mix has good drainage.

Humidity:

Cattleya orchids prefer high humidity, with a range of 50-70%. They can be grown in a humid environment, such as a greenhouse, or in a tray filled with pebbles and water, which will help to increase humidity around the plant.

Fertilizer:

Cattleya orchids should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content. They should not be fertilized during the dormant season.

Potting mix:

Cattleya orchids prefer a well-draining potting mix, such as a mixture of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. They should be repotted every two to three years, or when their potting mix has broken down.

Cattleya orchids are a beautiful and popular orchid species that are relatively easy to grow and care for. With the right conditions, they can produce spectacular flowers that are sure to impress. Whether you're a seasoned orchid grower or a beginner, cattleya orchids are a great choice for any collection.

Visit Orchids In Print to see our range of products with Cattleya images printed on them.

Have a great week,

Peter Johnson

Orchids In Print