Catasetum growing a new p-bulb now???

[Yazz]

Originally Posted by No-Pro-mwa

These are odd looking orchids, but the bulbs are kind of cool looking.

They are odd looking. The p-bulbs remind me of cigars.

[estación seca]

Fred Clarke told our society not to water until the roots reach 3"-5" / 7.5-13cm long each, not in aggregate. He said plants often rot if watered before the roots are this long. He also said he thinks premature watering makes the roots stop growing too soon, which leads to an inadequate root system to support the growing shoot.

[My Green Pets]

Last year was my first with a Catasetum type. I slowly phased in the watering as the new shoot grew. Began spraying the new roots lightly every couple of days, gradually increasing the frequency and amount of water. Finally began normal watering by properly drenching the medium when the new growth was several inches tall, not much bigger than yours is now.

These are exciting to watch as they undergo this fascinating transformation from season to season.

[Yazz]

Originally Posted by estación seca

Fred Clarke told our society not to water until the roots reach 3"-5" / 7.5-13cm long each, not in aggregate. He said plants often rot if watered before the roots are this long. He also said he thinks premature watering makes the roots stop growing too soon, which leads to an inadequate root system to support the growing shoot.

Was watering once a week like when I thought it might be a spike. Less now because the new medium is spag and pearlite. Have added a bit of fertilizer to help the new shoot grow. When repotting, found that the back roots were about 3" long. They were in aggregate. Does that count?

Estacion... You helped me with my cold Vanda. I looked up and tried the culture you treat yours and Cold Vanda is sending out a new root and another is sending out a spike with baby buds. Thank you!

---------- Post added at 10:11 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:52 PM ----------

Originally Posted by CambriaWhat

Last year was my first with a Catasetum type. I slowly phased in the watering as the new shoot grew. Began spraying the new roots lightly every couple of days, gradually increasing the frequency and amount of water. Finally began normal watering by properly drenching the medium when the new growth was several inches tall, not much bigger than yours is now.

These are exciting to watch as they undergo this fascinating transformation from season to season.

This is my first full year of growing orchids. Between a cold dry for the neos and others that want different treatment, what a learning experience! Tough love comes to mind.

Still have three other catasetum that are still in full dormancy. The Black Pearl never got there due to a learning curve on my part. This forum is a blessing for us newbies.

Believe it or not, I measured the growth and it's 5" long. Not meaning to brag, but still learning the ropes. With the others coming out of true dormancy will use your technique.

May I never forget the wonder of nature!

[isurus79]

Wait until the longest new root is over 3" long and don't water and definitely don't fertilize!!

[estación seca]

Catasetinae Culture - Sunset Valley Orchids