resting cattleyas

[peggy2187]

I have several cattleyas which I have been caring for about a year now. Last year I watered all through the year.
I have read where you should not water them from October through April.
Is this true? Looks like they would die.

Peggy

[gixrj18]

Once every 7-10 days is fine.

[smweaver]

Depends on what you have. Some rest, while others don't. Do you have species or hybrids? For the hybrids, I would definitely agree with Jasen's recommendation of once every 7 to 10 days, especially if it's overcast and your growing area is generally cooler than it would be during the summer months. Cut down (or simply eliminate) fertilizer applications also if the plants are resting.

[gixrj18]

Originally Posted by smweaver

Depends on what you have. Some rest, while others don't. Do you have species or hybrids? For the hybrids, I would definitely agree with Jasen's recommendation of once every 7 to 10 days, especially if it's overcast and your growing area is generally cooler than it would be during the summer months. Cut down (or simply eliminate) fertilizer applications also if the plants are resting.

I have mostly species, and they all get fertilized heavy during the winter with a low nitrogen diet. However, I live in Florida, and our winters aren't very drastic. I feed them full strength (once a week, twice a week during the summer), and they are very healthy.... and bloom regularly! This was recommended to me by a commercial grower, and has worked great for me. If you are in a colder climate, you may want to cut back a little more, but I wouldn't get too carried away. It has been many generations since these plants were in the wild, I don't think they require the same dormancy as a wild plant....but that's my opinion. I don't even rest my Catasetums, and they bloom reliably.....with many spikes. Bottom line is....plants adapt, and I personally believe there is a lot of myths going around out there about orchid growing. But this also is my opinion.

[tuvoc]

If they are putting out new growths and roots, water them as usual. If the growth slows down, water just enough to keep them from wilting. Each plant is going to be a little different. They'll let you know.

Kim

[gixrj18]

Originally Posted by tuvoc

If they are putting out new growths and roots, water them as usual. If the growth slows down, water just enough to keep them from wilting. Each plant is going to be a little different. They'll let you know.

Kim

Agreed!