Laelia (Cattleya?) purpata watering

[Jeff214]

Hi,

I have a question about watering needs of Laelias (Cattleya?).

I've recently found myself with a few Laelias (purpurata, and some related hybrids). All seem healthy, new roots, and actively growing... It's potted in a Cypress wood chip mix, indoors, under grow lights.

Since the p-bulbs began to shrivel, I tried increasing the watering from once a week to three times a week. When that did not help, I tried placing them in a saucer of water. This seems to have helped... although the P-bulbs have likely shriveled to a point of no return... All the new growths are happily making new leads and roots.

I've read that Laelia purpata loves to be watered during growth, but I'm a bit apprehensive of growing Catts soaking in a pool of water... Is it normal for these to require so much watering? Does anyone grow these constantly wet...?