Recommendation for a first Cattleya

[InspirChid1712]

I was wondering if anybody could recommend a good Cattleya alliance hybrid or species that is exceptionally easy to grow. I have been growing Phals, Paphs, and Dendrobiums for years, but I was thinking of branching into Cattleyas just for something different. I am generally not good with orchids that have higher lighting requirements (they do so poorly during a dark PA winter!) and I was looking for something exceptionally tolerant. What are your thoughts on Brassavola nodosa? Any ideas?! Thanks!!!!

[lepanthes89]

Brassavola nodosa is easy if you can give it good light;otherwise it will not flower.
A Cattleya sp.that I had consistent good results with is C.(Guarinanthe) bowringiana.Maybe its because its summer growing when it can be outside,and autumn flowering.I am very happy with it here in new york.
Good luck
Spiro.

[OrchidTess]

I have a Lc. Lucky Charms, it blooms inside in low light, outside high light, lack of water, lots of water, fell and broke in half, fried in the greenhouse....she's a good hardy orchid and very reliable bloomer.

[Lagoon]

Hello!

Have you been able to take alook inside this forum ?

http://www.orchidboard.com/community...res-show-tell/

[InspirChid1712]

Lucky Charms is CUTE!!! Where might I find one???

[euplusia]

The trick is a long rest period. Times of low light are times of dormancy for the plant with lower temperature and less water. That can last up to 6 months.
Can you grow outside in summertime to develop strong bulbs?
C. percivalliana is easy to grow, but may have difficulties to flourish in January. So you better try C. mossiae, gaskelliana, intermedia, nobelior, bowringiana and Laelia sincorana.

[OrchidTess]

Originally Posted by InspirChid1712

Lucky Charms is CUTE!!! Where might I find one???

I found mine on Ebay.