Winter dormancy is necessary for many deciduous Lycaste, but not all Lycaste enter dormancy in the same way. The plant determines the timing through pseudobulb maturation and the natural shedding of leaves. Do not stop watering simply because a particular month has arrived.
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When Lycaste enters dormancy
Many Lycaste grown as hybrids originate from deciduous species adapted to a drier season in their natural habitat. After the year's growth period ends, the new pseudobulb becomes firm and the leaves begin to turn yellow. Leaf drop in late autumn or early winter may be normal; it is not automatically a sign of disease.
Do not confuse this cycle with sudden leaf drop in summer. If the leaves turn yellow during active growth, check the roots, heat, direct light, and repeated drying before assuming that the plant is resting.
Deciduous Lycaste
When the plant has lost its leaves and the pseudobulbs are mature, stop fertilizing and keep the substrate almost dry. This is true dormancy: the roots must not sit in water, and the substrate should not be watered according to a calendar. If the pseudobulbs become severely shriveled, provide a small amount of water or a very brief watering, then allow the mix to dry again.
Do not pursue perfectly smooth pseudobulbs at all costs. Slight wrinkling during dormancy is normal. Problems occur when the bulbs shrink rapidly, become very soft, or when the plant is kept wet without leaves or active growth.
Lycaste that remain green
Species and hybrids that retain their leaves should not be kept completely dry. After the pseudobulbs have formed, reduce watering frequency and stop fertilizing for a period, but allow the roots to receive water when the substrate is nearly dry. Active leaves continue to lose water, and complete drying can damage the plant.
If you do not know which type of Lycaste you have, observe the plant instead of automatically applying a dry rest. A green plant with firm leaves or new growth should not be treated like one that is completely defoliated.
Watering and fertilizing during dormancy
Leafless plant: very little water, only to prevent extreme dehydration. Green plant: water less often, but do not stop completely. In both situations, stop fertilizing until the plant resumes visible growth.
Avoid water remaining between young leaves, where they are still folded. In cool air without ventilation, this moisture can encourage spotting and rot. Water in the morning, allow excess water to drain, and maintain gentle air circulation.
How to resume watering in spring
Do not return to abundant watering simply because the temperature has risen. Wait for the plant's signal: the tip of new growth, new roots, or the initiation of a flower spike. Then begin with moderate waterings and gradually increase the frequency as the roots become active and the leaves unfold.
Resume fertilizing only after the new growth has functional roots and the plant is using water regularly. Fertilizer applied to a plant that is still dormant will not speed up its growth and may cause salts to accumulate in the substrate.
Common mistakes
Watering a leafless Lycaste heavily. The pseudobulbs may appear safe, but inactive roots remain too long in cold, wet substrate.
Allowing a green Lycaste to dry out completely. This is the opposite mistake: the leaves continue to transpire, and the plant becomes dehydrated even if the pseudobulbs still appear firm.
Resuming fertilization too early. Wait for new growth, not a calendar date.
Pulling off yellowing leaves. Allow them to detach naturally whenever possible; the plant recovers resources before the leaves fall.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for Lycaste to lose its leaves in winter?
Yes, for many deciduous Lycaste. Check the pseudobulbs: if they are firm and the leaf drop follows the maturation of new growth, it may be normal dormancy.
How often should a leafless Lycaste be watered?
There is no fixed schedule. Check the pseudobulbs and the mix; water lightly only if the plant begins to show significant dehydration.
Should Lycaste be fertilized during dormancy?
No. Resume fertilizing after new growth and active roots appear.
Where can I find the complete care guide?
Read the complete Lycaste orchid care guide, covering light, substrate, repotting, flowering, and common problems.
This article is provided free of charge. To support the research and publication of additional guides, you can order an orchid from the potted orchid collection.