Time to Repot question for Cattleya

[Celtic100]

Back bulbs are in effect in the back of the plant and usually have no leaves. they are nourishment storage for the plant. I have examined my plant and I don't see anything that fits this description. Each pbulb has leaves - not a one without. Maybe that's also why it is not doing well. I have learned a lot from all of the posts - After flowering and seeing new root growth, into a plastic or terra cotta pot! ...and onto a happy plant (hopefully). Thanks again.

[cbuchman]

Not to worry, Just means that your have a VERY healthy plant. Its probable that someone cleaned out the back bulbs before it was sold. Just take note of where the actively growing (i.e., creating new bulbs) are.

[Celtic100]

Wow! that's certainly good to hear. I have had this plant for 13 years and haven't killed it yet so to hear that, in fact, it's very healthy is really encouraging. I just have to change a few of its pot and culture factors and it should get even better. Onward and upward! Thanks again.

[got ants]

As noted by others, it could be the plant is just not able to "breath" When catts are out in the wild, their roots are generally exposed to the air.

Also, when my plants get large, I move away from bark, or other water retention media, to a more loose and airy medium. My favorite is Stalite, charcoal and sponge rock. Yeah, I have to water more often, but worry less about rot.

And in closing, while your leaves look lovely, they really should be a lighter green from more light.