Lc Fire Island "fiery" (Eva x Oro Bay)

[cabbo]

Bought in bloom 2 weeks ago. Came home today and the flowers are totally shrivelled up. I see Catt's dont bloom long. Is this normal? I know this is probably a stupid question but in general, how often do Catt's bloom per year?

[quiltergal]

It really depends on the plant in both instances. I have a Rsc. Hoku Gem 'Freckles' that blooms off of every growth it matures, and the blooms last a good month. I have another Rsc. that only blooms once a year and that's only if the planets are aligned just right and it only lasts for a couple of weeks.

[whygreenberg]

In addition to what Terri said, which is totally true, do you know how long it had been in bloom before you purchased it? It could just be that they were at the end of their time.

[cabbo]

No I dont, I should have asked. I'm more curious as to how long I have to wait until it blooms again.

[quiltergal]

Is it starting a new growth yet Cabbo? Catts usually only bloom one time per mature psuedo bulb. So, you will have to wait for a new one to grow and if all is well with the plant it should bloom when the new growth matures. Make sure it gets plenty of light.

[cabbo]

Yes, it has some new growth.Do I just leave the stem alone after the flowers fall off?

[quiltergal]

You can trim the spike off. Put a little dab of cinnamon on the cut end to prevent infection.

[cabbo]

Originally Posted by quiltergal

You can trim the spike off. Put a little dab of cinnamon on the cut end to prevent infection.

Is trimming the spike off subjective to opinion like it is with Phals or is this more cut and dry (no pun intended) Thanks for the help, Chris