Catamodes (Catasetum x Mormodes) genera, awards, slideshow, etc.
Catamodes is an artificial and typically smaller growing but robust genus produced by the breeding of Catasetum and Mormodes. This group of orchids is a interesting breeding combination with members having multiple and more brightly coloured flowers, vigorous growth and flowering that may occur two to three times a year. Typically, the flower life is also improved due to now 'trigger-less' flowers (another Mormodes influence) compared to what is seen with the shorter lived Catasetum blooms. Catasetums impart these hybrids with greater flower size and better flower shape.
Catamodes are heavy feeders during their growing period but a dry rest period of differing lengths according to species is needed after flowering, specifically, once the plants start to drop leaves. Water is gradually reduced, then withheld. If at all, water sparingly only to prevent pseudobulbs from shrinking too much. Once new growth reaches 4 inches and new roots reach 2 or more inches long, watering is begun, with normal abundant watering taking place once the potting mix again approaches dryness. Fertilize well during the active growing season as the plant does not get a chance to be fertilized during its dry rest period. Catamodes like humidity of 50-70% with warm day temperatures of 75-80 F (24-27 C) dropping 10-15 F (6-8 C) at night. Repot just as new growth is beginning at the end of the dry rest.
Catamodes are heavy feeders during their growing period but a dry rest period of differing lengths according to species is needed after flowering, specifically, once the plants start to drop leaves. Water is gradually reduced, then withheld. If at all, water sparingly only to prevent pseudobulbs from shrinking too much. Once new growth reaches 4 inches and new roots reach 2 or more inches long, watering is begun, with normal abundant watering taking place once the potting mix again approaches dryness. Fertilize well during the active growing season as the plant does not get a chance to be fertilized during its dry rest period. Catamodes like humidity of 50-70% with warm day temperatures of 75-80 F (24-27 C) dropping 10-15 F (6-8 C) at night. Repot just as new growth is beginning at the end of the dry rest.
Please contact the webmaster if you would like to contribute to this slideshow.