Whoops it’s actually a #Cattleya
So I got this as a present from a botanical gardens years ago. I have great luck with #PhalaenopsisOrchid buuuut just learned this week that DUH SARAH this guy ain’t one.
So can anyone teach me more about its care? It has new growth but has never bloomed (and wasn’t blooming when I got it). And I’m afraid to repot because his air roots are grabbing all around the pot (again, like that when he was given to me).
I’ll do my own research too but any tips? Thanks! #OrchidLovers #Cattlea #CattleyaOrchid #help #caretips
So can anyone teach me more about its care? It has new growth but has never bloomed (and wasn’t blooming when I got it). And I’m afraid to repot because his air roots are grabbing all around the pot (again, like that when he was given to me).
I’ll do my own research too but any tips? Thanks! #OrchidLovers #Cattlea #CattleyaOrchid #help #caretips
0ft to light, indirect
5” pot with drainage
Last watered 3 years ago
1
@RealSimpleMama it looks like it’s a Stiff flower star orchid. Botanical name is Epidemdrum Rigidrum Orchid.
Light
Depending on the species, most Epidendrums like full sun or partial shade conditions. Getting the light right is one of the trickiest parts of any orchid care. Too little, and they may not bloom. Too much, and their leaves can start to burn and turn brown.
Bright but in-direct light often yields the best results. Preferably they shouldn't be positioned somewhere; that means being exposed to extreme direct sun during the most intense summer months.
Soil
The main requirement for Epidendrum orchids is that they're potted in a site with good drainage. If they're being grown outdoors, loamy, sandy soil will be the best option.
Known for thriving in low nutrient planting material, they can cope with a variety of potting mixes when container-grown. Things like bark mixed with perlite, gravel, moss, or coarse sand usually work well. There are even potting mixes available specifically for orchids or cactuses that will do the job.
Water
Epidendrums need regular watering to flourish, but their roots prefer to dry out properly in-between times. In the warmer months, they'll need watering at least once a week and possibly more frequently.
In the cooler months, you won't need to water so often. Only opting for watering once every two or three weeks may even help encourage more healthy bud growth.
As with all orchids, it's all about getting the right balance. They won't appreciate being allowed to get dehydrated or being left waterlogged. It's also important to water in the morning to prevent stagnation.
Temperature and Humidity
Different Epidendrum species vary widely in temperature requirements. In general, however, these orchids are pretty tough and resilient. They can cope with a range of temperatures but won't be able to handle freezing conditions.
They usually prefer temperatures around the low 70s during the day and nothing below 10 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Ideally, humidity levels are good between 50 and 70%.
Fertilizer
Your Epidendrum will likely appreciate being fed a diluted mix of a high-quality and balanced orchid fertilizer once a week or 14 days.
Light
Depending on the species, most Epidendrums like full sun or partial shade conditions. Getting the light right is one of the trickiest parts of any orchid care. Too little, and they may not bloom. Too much, and their leaves can start to burn and turn brown.
Bright but in-direct light often yields the best results. Preferably they shouldn't be positioned somewhere; that means being exposed to extreme direct sun during the most intense summer months.
Soil
The main requirement for Epidendrum orchids is that they're potted in a site with good drainage. If they're being grown outdoors, loamy, sandy soil will be the best option.
Known for thriving in low nutrient planting material, they can cope with a variety of potting mixes when container-grown. Things like bark mixed with perlite, gravel, moss, or coarse sand usually work well. There are even potting mixes available specifically for orchids or cactuses that will do the job.
Water
Epidendrums need regular watering to flourish, but their roots prefer to dry out properly in-between times. In the warmer months, they'll need watering at least once a week and possibly more frequently.
In the cooler months, you won't need to water so often. Only opting for watering once every two or three weeks may even help encourage more healthy bud growth.
As with all orchids, it's all about getting the right balance. They won't appreciate being allowed to get dehydrated or being left waterlogged. It's also important to water in the morning to prevent stagnation.
Temperature and Humidity
Different Epidendrum species vary widely in temperature requirements. In general, however, these orchids are pretty tough and resilient. They can cope with a range of temperatures but won't be able to handle freezing conditions.
They usually prefer temperatures around the low 70s during the day and nothing below 10 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Ideally, humidity levels are good between 50 and 70%.
Fertilizer
Your Epidendrum will likely appreciate being fed a diluted mix of a high-quality and balanced orchid fertilizer once a week or 14 days.
