New catasetum, advice please

[greengarden]

I've tried searching but couldn't find what I was after. I went to my orchid club auction last night and came home with some great bargains. One was a Catasetum 'Doris's Choice'. It's looking a little scrappy due to what looks like a snail attack but is in generally good condition with 9 good looking large leafless bulbs, 1 advanced leafy bulb and 5 new growths.

So.... I have no idea what to do with this thing! It's autumn here and just starting to get cooler (daytime averaging around 21 degrees celcius). Can anyone help me with what I should be doing and when? What temp range would this plant be? Could I keep it outdoors over winter given they go dormant or maybe in the garage and should I water it at all in winter? Should I divide it up at all and if I do what is a good potting medium for it?

Help!!!

[orchidsarefun]

I follow this advice, he is a famous grower/hybridiser

Sunset Valley Orchids - Grower and hybridizer of quality orchids, Vista CA


make adj for Southern Hemisphere growing - by adding 6 months to his timetable ?

[isurus79]

Originally Posted by greengarden

Could I keep it outdoors over winter given they go dormant or maybe in the garage and should I water it at all in winter? Should I divide it up at all and if I do what is a good potting medium for it?

Help!!!

The link that orchidsarefun posted above is a really great guide to follow. Here are some more tips that aren't covered there:

If your temps are above 50 degrees (F) or so, you can keep them outside but keep them dry.

There is no need to divide them, though some people do. I've never done it and my Catasetinae always grow nicely.

In terms of media, these guys will grow in just about anything! During the growing season they like to stay fairly moist, but not sopping wet. Basically, they like to more moist that Cattleyas, but not as much as Phalaenopsis. I'll let you put something together than can replicate that in your conditions. During dormancy they don't need water.