Catasetum is the largest genus of the Catasetinae subfamily and grows in a variety of conditions - either in the warm and humid shelter of trees, or at the base of old palm leaves; some species can be found on rocks, on the ground, or even in sand, on the central-Pacific coast of Mexico (towards Paraguay) and in Northern Argentina. This genus likes warm temperature, strong light and a well-ventilated space.
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Common characteristics with Cycnoches:
- new growths develop rapidly - within 5-6 months, they flower, lose their leaves and hibernate between 1 month and 5 months, depending on the species and the climatic conditions of the habitat;
- separate flowers, male and female, occasionally hermaphroditic;
- the female flowers are very similar in shape, so species recognition is 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 constant high humidity is maintained. After flowering, watering can be reduced or completely stopped until the new growths develop enough to produce roots and growths measuring 8-15 cm.
Leaf cutting. When the new growth reaches maturity, the leaves can be cut (at this point they already start to yellow on their own anyway). Cutting them ensures easier transport, easier pest control (catasetines are true magnets for red spider mites and more) and greater plant stability. Leaf cutting can mean an acceleration of flowering for varieties that bloom after entering winter dormancy.
During the resting period, plants can still remain in areas with good natural or artificial light - in nature, this factor does not change. If significant dehydration of the bulb is noticed, it is recommended to hydrate by fine spraying - both the bulb, provided it is well cleaned, and the substrate can be sprayed.
Fertilizing Catasetinae. A nitrogen (N) rich fertilizer is used during the growth period. As with other genera in the subfamily Catasetinae, it is important that plants are watered abundantly, kept in strong light, and the air is well ventilated.
Repotting. For replanting, 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 container. Sphagnum is ideal because it has a high retention of water and nutrients. At the same time, it allows easy development of new roots. Clay balls provide good drainage but also have some water retention that will later be released as vapor. Sphagnum needs replacement every 1-3 years as it compacts and water retention and air circulation decrease.
Hydro culture. Catasetinae can be successfully grown in hydro 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".
Catasetinae 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 areas or with very good light, pot perforation is recommended for substrate drying within a reasonable time frame.
Plant overcrowding should be avoided - pots with Catasetinae can be spaced out or hung, as good air circulation around them is necessary.
Replanting is generally done in spring, when new growth appears.
The Catasetinae offer from Secret Garden is available here (link).
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