Catasetum orchids are very easy to care for and have beautiful displays of flowers. It is surprising that they are not much more popular. Catasetums are epiphytes, many of which enter a dormant period at the end of their growth. During the grow season, they are tolerant of up to 6,000 foot-candles, although these orchids are adaptable down to Phalaenopsis light (~1,500 foot-candles). During the grow season, Catasetums love fertilizer and lots of water. You may end up watering this plant every 2-3 days depending on your climate. Once it reaches dormancy, it drops its leaves. It looks like it is dying, but this is completely normal. During this period, very little water if at all is given to the orchid. In a few months, it leaves dormancy by starting a new growth that will mature over the next season. Most of these orchids bloom once their pseudobulbs mature, the blooms often lasting for 2-3 weeks. If you would like to grow an easy to care for orchid with outstanding blooms, consider buying a Catasetum!
