Do I need to re-pot?

[Cym Ladye]

Fisher,

You will get as many different ways to handle your LBS as people who sign onto this thread. Beware.

The two Australian species composing this cross come from two different climates - the canaliculatum a drier clime and the madidum a wetter more humid one. Most LDS plants find a happy medium and will grow well given a few conditions:
1) Use a fast draining mix like medium fir bark and expanded perlite on a 4 to 1 basis. I sometimes add a small portion of fine bark and artificial sand in the mix too. DO NOT WATER IMMEDIATELY AFTER RE-POTTING, but wait a couple of weeks.
2) Although the species canaliculatum prefers a drier environment and can really struggle in Florida, combining it with the species madidum makes is easier to handle and the LBS can tolerate more water. Given that however, do not over water the LBS and water sparingly during the winter.
3) Re-pot when you see a new growth up about 3-4". This means the roots are about to sink into the mix and the plant will take hold faster.
4) Grow high with a good amount of sun short of burning. Hanging high in the greenhouse or handle as a cattleya works.

This is a fun hybrid to grow and bloom and when happy, can take over a lot of territory with a very showy display!

CL