It’s October: Time to Focus on Catasetinae Orchids

As the crisp autumn air begins to roll in, it’s a clear sign that your Catasetinae orchids are approaching the final stages of their growing season. This year has been an exceptional one for Catasetinae enthusiasts, with many growers across the country enjoying a spectacular flowering season.

Now, the first signs of dormancy are starting to appear, especially in certain regions. Soon, it will be time to adjust your care routine by halting fertilization and gradually reducing the frequency of watering. This will help create longer dry intervals, which are essential as the plants prepare for their upcoming rest period.

In nature, three significant environmental changes trigger dormancy in Catasetinae:

• The rainy season tapers off, resulting in fewer rain showers.
• Temperatures begin to drop, with cooler nights and days.
• The days grow shorter, providing less sunlight.

With the decrease in rainfall, fewer nutrients reach the roots, which is why it’s crucial to stop fertilizing. The roots will also remain drier for longer periods, so reducing irrigation frequency is key. These dry intervals signal to the plant that it’s time to harden off its pseudobulbs, preparing them for the upcoming winter dry period, which can last anywhere from 2-4 months. Properly hardened pseudobulbs will store water more efficiently during dormancy.

It’s important to maintain humidity levels between 40-60%. While brief fluctuations outside this range aren't a cause for concern, try to keep night temperatures above 55°F and maintain consistent light exposure. At this stage, repotting should be avoided, as the roots are well-established and do not take kindly to disturbance. If you missed the chance to repot earlier, it’s best to wait until next spring.

One of the most forgiving traits of Catasetinae orchids is their deciduous nature. If you’ve noticed some leaf damage over the summer, don’t worry—those leaves will soon drop, and come spring, your plant will grow fresh, new foliage. Not many orchids are as resilient when it comes to leaf damage!

During this time of year, Catasetums are showing off their flowers, the Cycnoches are in full bloom, and the Mormodes are just beginning to spike. And the excitement doesn’t end there—there’s still the beautiful Clowesia rosea hybrids to look forward to, which will bloom from December through January.

As October unfolds, enjoy the spectacle of your Catasetinae orchids and prepare them for a well-deserved rest before they begin their next growing cycle! Happy Growing :)