NOID Cattleya- suggestions for improving flower quantities
NOID Cattleya- suggestions for improving flower quantities are welcome. Identification guidance is welcome as well (I know hybrids are nearly impossible, but at least what type it is most like would be helpful).
The attached pictures show the actually divisions of one plant (divided spring of 2014). The large baskets are 12 in square plastic net pots, the smaller plant is in an 8 in. plastic pot. The plants have grown well, each putting out at least 5 new growths (one put out 11!). Sheath count was 21 this year, only 3 have budded. It roots generously as well. I am considering purchasing Kelpmax and Cal/Mag to add to my culture regime. I have noticed black spots beginning to form on the older leaf growth which appears to be from a calcium deficiency.
Current culture: for 3 large plants
Large bark in plastic net pots, (one is topped with sphagnum moss and grew outdoors in bright sun)
The other 2 were grown under a high output T-5 in a south facing window in MO. Blinds are used to break up the most intense sunlight during the mid-day hours.
Current culture: for 1 smaller plant
Large bark with sphagnum mixed through out medium
Watered: (RO water) twice weekly, heavily misted several times daily (especially roots exposed at the top of the pot). The plant kept outdoors received frequent rains (it was a very rainy season in MO this spring/summer). I also watered it if it did not rain every 3days.
Fertilizer: Better Gro Orchid Plus 20-14-13 & Better Gro Orchid Better-Bloom 11-35-15 (both are Urea-free)
Spring - August: 3 weeks 20-14-13 then 1 week 11-35-15 magnesium added once monthly in the form of Epsom Salts.
August - end of Active growth : 3weeks 11-35-15 then 1 week 20-14-13 ( I have not been as consistent with the schedule in this portion and many weeks are just clear water).
Super Thrive is added on occasion monthly/bimonthly. This will be replaced by KelpMax when I receive it.
A total of 4 blooms this year. I hope to make major improvements in bloom counts in 2016/2017.
The plants seem to have new growth through out the entire year. Thus, adding to the fertilizing dilemma (when to use what)! I have only had flowers during Jan./ Feb. in the past. It seems like the opportunity for flowers should be more frequent based on growth patterns.
Last edited by AndreaK; 01-05-2016 at 03:35 PM..
Reason: removal of accidental sad face
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