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Cattleya Jairak Cosmos is a beautiful hybrid orchid known for its unique white background with mesmerizing red spots and markings.
Here's a comprehensive care guide for Cattleya:
1. Light:
Bright, indirect light is crucial. This is the most important factor for good growth and blooming.
Mimic its natural habitat where it receives dappled sunlight filtered through tree canopies.
Ideal placement: An east-facing window for gentle morning sun. A west-facing window can work, but be cautious of intense afternoon sun, which can scorch leaves. A south-facing window may be too strong unless shielded by a sheer curtain.
Signs of incorrect light:
Too little: Dark green leaves, leggy growth, and failure to bloom.
Too much: Yellow or reddish leaves, or sunburned spots.
Just right: Medium green leaves and regular blooming.
If natural light is insufficient, you can supplement with artificial grow lights.
2. Temperature:
Cattleya Jairak Cosmos thrives in intermediate to warm temperatures.
Daytime: 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 80°F). It can tolerate up to 35°C (95°F) if humidity and air circulation are increased.
Nighttime: 10°C to 15.6°C (50°F to 60°F). A 10-15°F (5-8°C) difference between day and night temperatures is beneficial for blooming.
Maintain consistent temperatures.
3. Humidity:
Cattleyas appreciate moderate to high humidity, ideally between 50% and 70%.
To increase humidity:
Use a humidifier.
Place a humidity tray (a shallow tray filled with pebbles and water, ensuring the pot is not sitting directly in the water).
Mist the plant regularly, especially during dry periods, but allow the leaves to dry before nightfall to prevent fungal issues.
Good air movement is essential, especially with high humidity, to prevent stagnant air and disease development. Use fans if necessary.
4. Watering:
Allow the potting medium to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering is a common killer of orchids and leads to root rot.
Frequency: Depends on factors like pot size, potting medium, temperature, and humidity. You'll water more often in warmer, drier conditions and less in cooler, more humid times.
How to check: The top inch of the media should feel dry. Lifting the pot to gauge its weight (lighter means drier) is also a good indicator.
Water thoroughly: When you do water, soak the plant until water drains freely from the bottom of the pot.
Best time to water: Morning, so leaves can dry before nightfall.
Water quality: Ideally, use rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water. If using tap water, let it sit for 24 hours to allow chlorine to dissipate. Avoid getting water in the crown of the plant.
5. Fertilization:
During active growth (typically spring to early fall), fertilize regularly.
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20 NPK) diluted according to the manufacturer's instructions. Some growers recommend fertilizing weekly at a quarter strength.
During the dormant period (shorter, cooler days in winter), reduce fertilization frequency (e.g., twice a month).
Monthly flushing with clear water helps prevent fertilizer salt buildup.
6. Potting and Repotting:
Drainage is key: Cattleya roots need excellent drainage and aeration to prevent root rot. Slotted pots are often preferred.
Potting mix: Use a well-draining orchid mix such as a blend of fir bark, charcoal, coconut husk, or inorganic media like expanded clay pellets and lava rock.
Pot size: Choose a pot that comfortably accommodates the roots without excessive space. This helps the media dry out properly.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years, or when the potting medium starts to break down and drain poorly, or when the rhizome of the plant grows over the edge of the pot. Repot before new roots sprout from the rhizome, typically after flowering or in spring. Always trim away damaged roots with a sterile cutting tool.
7. Air Circulation:
Good air movement is vital to prevent stagnant air and the development of fungal and bacterial diseases, especially when humidity is high. Ensure good ventilation.
By following these guidelines, your Cattleya Jairak Cosmos should flourish and reward you with its magnificent blooms!
