Short-lived Cattleya flowers

[Lars Kurth]

This spring I repotted and heavily divided most of my Cattleyas. I had to do this, because the growing conditions in my greenhouse changed and the Cattleyas did not dry out properly and took heavy root damage. So I moved to a much more open substrate and smaller pots, watered less and got lots of new growth (including root growth) this season.

As the first set of Catts flowered, I noticed that plants which had previously kept their flowers open for 2-3 weeks opened and closed flowers within a week. My suspicion is that this is an energy saving measure by the plants. Any experiences? Could it be an indicator for something else, e.g. viruses (although the leaves look fine and fresh)

Lars

[dounoharm]

i think they will be fine on the next flowering, chances are it was weather related or some such factor....i noticed in hot weather my blossoms dont last as long....

[DebsC]

Just my two cents, but I'd say you may be right and the plants are conserving energy. Dividing, changing the mix, root problems, all these factors could affect their flowering.

Hopefully, all will bloom normally in their next cycle.

[CTB]

More water prior to blooming might have helped, by dividing your orchid you removed a source of energy and moisture for the orchid. I have found that dividing and repotting sometimes is very hard on the orchid, and it needs time to completely establishes itself. Catts have fragile blooms to begin with. Should be OK next blooming.

[Izzie]

I agree.
Are you continuing to fertilize while they are in flower?

[Gin]

I have noticed the same thing after dividing esp. if it is hot during blooming .. should be fine next time

[peeweelovesbooks]

I cut off the blooms if I need to do any of the above things you did.

I'm sure they will be ok next time.

[Lars Kurth]

Thanks for the hints: exactly what I thought. Just wasn't entirely sure ...