want to try growing Cattleyas :D - Page 2 - Orchid Board

kiki-do · #11 03-06-2008, 05:28 PM

Hi tokidoki,
Ross is right, they are like comparing apples to oranges. I grow both here in Maine with no problem. If you have good bright light, than you can grow these beauties. Catts like to be watered well, then allowed to dry out. Phals like to be somewhat moist...not soggy or anything, but need more water than catts. They also do not require strong light, only medium amount of light in order to thrive. Both orchids are not difficult at all....they just need different care. I find catts are easy to care for. You just have to determine how much light your place has to offer them. You can always opt for grow lights, too.

tokidoki · #12 03-06-2008, 05:44 PM

thanks!! how about temperature? are catts ok to be grown outside in the summer?

kiki-do · #13 03-06-2008, 05:52 PM

Yes, as long as the night temps do not drop below 55 (F)degrees. And as long as the sun doesn't bake them. Just something to think about. Many people in the southern states keep them outdoors, but always mindful of night temps, extreme sun, and winds. You have to place them in a good area where they are somewhat protected.

tokidoki · #14 03-06-2008, 06:30 PM

oh ok thanks! do u have any favorite catts?

Lagoon · #15 03-06-2008, 07:17 PM

I've drop my catts down to the 40's and they take full sun from morning til it moves off - Be sure to adjust the lighting hrs. Don't toss any orchids into the sun without some adjustment time, Or they will burn like a babies bum

Some catts like to dry out more then others - some like to stay rather damp. Smaller catts need to have more moisture. Some will rest in the colder months for a couple of weeks per time.

Phals and catts are very different (IMHO) catts are a much tougher orchid and can be easier to deal with in my experience

They're wonderful orchids

tokidoki · #16 03-07-2008, 06:02 PM

how do u adjust the catts to lighting hours? do u mean try getting them used to more sun etc?

Lagoon · #17 03-07-2008, 06:35 PM

Yes Toki, thats' it. Everyday abit more at a time. I adjust them starting in the early mornings for 1/2 hr then to 1 hr, then pull back towards the shade, not full shade just defused light. Once you get to about 3 hrs of full sun - you should be good to go into more if you so choose. Not all catts want intense sunlight, you will need to check on those leaves, relieve them if stress is showing on the leaves.

Note My grow zone is 5 they face southwest.

Normally it takes me about 1 week to 10 days, then they fend for themselves.
The more light they receive the more water they need.