Catasetum is the largest genus of the Catasetine subfamily and grows in a variety of conditions – either sheltered in the warm, humid shade of trees, at the base of old palm leaves; some species can be found on rocks, soil, or even sand along the central-Pacific coast of Mexico (towards Paraguay) and northern Argentina. This genus prefers warm temperatures, strong light, and a well-ventilated space.
The Catasetum offer from Secret Garden is available here (link).
Common characteristics with Cycnoches:
- New growths develop rapidly – within 5-6 months, they flower, lose their leaves, and hibernate for between 1 and 5 months, depending on the species and the climatic conditions of their habitat;
- Separate male and female flowers, occasionally hermaphroditic;
- The female flowers are very similar in shape, making species recognition almost impossible based on this variant;
- The main pests are red spider mites, spider mites, and woolly aphids, which appear and multiply rapidly in the absence of humidity and proper ventilation.
The male flowers of the genus Catasetum vary greatly from species to species. There are at least 12-15 different basic forms.
During the growth period, a consistently high humidity is maintained. After flowering, watering can be reduced or completely stopped until the new growths develop enough to produce roots and shoots measuring 8-15 cm.
Leaf pruning. When the new growth reaches maturity, the leaves can be cut (at this point they are already starting to yellow on their own anyway). Cutting them ensures easier transport, easier pest control (catasetums are true magnets for red spider mites and more), and greater plant stability. Leaf pruning can also accelerate flowering for varieties that bloom after entering winter dormancy.
During the dormancy period, the plants can still remain in areas with good natural or artificial light – in nature, this factor does not change. If severe dehydration of the bulb is noticed, hydration by fine misting is recommended – both the bulb, provided it is well cleaned, and the substrate can be misted.
Fertilizing catasetums. A nitrogen-rich fertilizer (N) is used during the growth period. As with other genera in the Catasetinae subfamily, it is important that the plants are watered abundantly, kept in strong light, and the air is well ventilated.
Repotting. For repotting, depending on growth habits, microclimate, and time allocated for care, there are several options:
Bark, cork wood, or coconut chips mixed with Sphagnum, for better water retention
Sphagnum with a layer of clay balls at the bottom of the pot. Sphagnum is ideal because it has high water and nutrient retention. At the same time, it allows easy development of new roots. Clay balls provide good drainage but also retain some water that will later be released as vapor. Sphagnum needs to be replaced every 1-3 years as it compacts and water retention and air circulation decrease.
Hydroponic culture. Catasetums can be successfully grown in hydroponic cultures (clay balls, charcoal, etc.), as long as very frequent irrigation and specific fertilization (with a special fertilizer for hydroponic cultures) are ensured. In practice, these cultivation methods are suitable for greenhouses with automatic watering systems, where excess water is not a problem and ventilation is very good. This cultivation method is not recommended for growing plants "at home."
Catasetums can be successfully grown in clay pots, transparent plastic (roots are visible and can be easily checked), or perforated baskets (note - growing in baskets requires frequent watering). When plants cannot be placed in warm or very bright areas, it is recommended to drill holes in the pots to allow the substrate to dry within a reasonable time frame.
Avoid crowding the plants - pots with catasetums can be spaced out or hung, as good air circulation around them is necessary.
Repotting is generally done in spring, when new growth appears.
The Catasetum offer from Secret Garden is available here (link).
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