FDK After Dark SVO Black Pearl: Problematic Purchase

[Aedrich]

Hello Everyone!
I would like to thank the administrators for accepting me to our group. The reason why I have joined our group is because I have recently purchased an FDK After Dark SVO Black Pearl form an online Orchid Nursery.

I recieved it last December 18 and after researching online about the plant and how to care for it. It seems like I didn't get a very nice deal out of it. It was 60€ plus shipping and what I got was a bit of a let down.

1st, there are three pseudobulbs in total. 1 parent pseudobulb and 2 more new pseudobulb from this year's growth cycle. One of the two new bulbs, is bigger than the other one while the newest one is smaller in size. This is a bit of warning sign, as it says on my research that stressed plants tend to create smaller structures than the previous one.

2nd, it appears that this plant had a spider mite infestation. Based on the leaves there are signs of it. Not only that... it seems like slugs have also eaten parts of its leaves.
(For now there are no apparent active infestation. I did the cotton swab test 2x now and there are not brown or red discolouration on it. No webs as well so I guess it is all under control. As for the slugs, I havent seen any mucus track so I guess it is safe to assume that they arent around as well.)

3rd, It is already January and the plant hasn't yet entered full dormancy. I am concern about the next growth cycle this spring.

With all these considered, what course of action would you recommend. I wouldnt like to loose it. It is actually a christmas gift from my husband.

Here are some questions I would like to ask:

1. Should I force the dormancy period? Should I completely stop watering even if the other pseudobulb is still completely green?

2. Is it a good idea to completely change the potting media to avoid any further infestation in spring? Can I do this just after my plant reach full dormancy? Or should I wait for spring since I might need the roots in winter if my bulbs suffer from dehydration?

3. Will my plant suffer "set-back"? I am a bit realistic about my plant's condition now and a flower spike might not be due this cycle.... in fact I would rather not have a flower this cycle and just reserve all that energy for growth in spring.

So far I have followed what I have read and I have "reduced" the amount of water it gets. I use reverse osmosis water and offer 1/4cup every two weeks.

[isurus79]

Didn't we answer these questions already? Catasetum 'Fredclarkarea SVO Black Pearl': Two canes with different stage of growth.

[Roberta]

I think the questions should be pretty much answered in this link Sunset Valley Orchids - Catasetinae Culture .

Spidermites afflict Catasetinae leaves... fortunately, each year it gets new leaves, a new chance in the new year. Once those new leaves emerge and develop, watch carefully and treat when (not if... ) they show up.

Price is reasonable - this is a mature plant not a seedling. This time of year, the Catasetinae that haven't already gone dormant just do look rather ratty so don't judge its appearance.

[Aedrich]

Originally Posted by isurus79

Didn't we answer these questions already? Catasetum 'Fredclarkarea SVO Black Pearl': Two canes with different stage of growth.

Yes yes... this is a summary of all the things I have noticed just now, but thanks again.

---------- Post added at 10:50 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:49 PM ----------

Originally Posted by Roberta

I think the questions should be pretty much answered in this link Sunset Valley Orchids - Catasetinae Culture .

Spidermites afflict Catasetinae leaves... fortunately, each year it gets new leaves, a new chance in the new year. Once those new leaves emerge and develop, watch carefully and treat when (not if... ) they show up.

Price is reasonable - this is a mature plant not a seedling. This time of year, the Catasetinae that haven't already gone dormant just do look rather ratty so don't judge its appearance.

I have read that too. Luckily they are forgiving plants. I cant even imagine if my phals get damaged.... they will bear the marks for years.

[Roberta]

Phals and other hard-leaved orchids are a lot less vulnerable to spidermites. Those big, soft leaves of Catasetinae are magnets. So if they share space with Phals and other orchids, just do your best to keep the infestation of the Catasetinae under control so that it doesn't spread.

[Aedrich]

Originally Posted by Roberta

Phals and other hard-leaved orchids are a lot less vulnerable to spidermites. Those big, soft leaves of Catasetinae are magnets. So if they share space with Phals and other orchids, just do your best to keep the infestation of the Catasetinae under control so that it doesn't spread.

I will keep that in mind this coming spring and summer. This is my 1st experience with this orchid group. I hope my learning curve won't be too steep.