The Blc. Chia Lin 'New City' AM/AOS is a good and large hybrid
of the Brassovola, Laelia & Cattleya species.
This particular hybrid is known for its deep burgundy
colour, and beautiful coloration of the lip with a waterfall pattern going into
a yellow/orange heart. It will stand out immediately because of the size of the
flowers and their deep colours and powerful fragrance they produce. However, it’s
not the easiest plant to grow and in some cases it can take up to 7 years from
seedling for it to finally produce a flower sheath.
This plant as beautiful it is will require some trial and
error before it finally rewards you with those magnificent flowers, but it’s
well worth it.
LIGHT
As with most cattleya hybrids you will need a lot of good
sun exposure for them to grow well and flourish. A north exposure window that
gets sunshine throughout the day will be best. However, ensure to give it diffused
light during the hottest summer days as the foliage may get burned. Remember if
the foliage gets a red tan, it means that your light is more than enough.
TEMPERATURE
Plants can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. In the
spring and summer, day-time temperature can reach up to 27C to 34C degree maximum
for a short period of time, with a noticeable difference at night. During
winter months, day temperatures in the intermediate average of 19C are preferred.
HUMIDITY
Ideally humidity should be kept from 40 to 60%. However they can tolerate lower levels. Use humidity trays or a small room humidifier
when growing indoors.
WATER & FERTILISER
Use pure water, such as rainwater, distilled or reverse
osmosis water if possible. Hard water
tends to spot the leaves and will eventually collect in the medium. Flush the plant regularly, especially if
using municipal or well water. Never use artificially softened water. Plants should
dry out between watering. Use
ample water in spring and summer while the plants are in active growth and in
flower, reducing water greatly during cooler winter days. If plants are mounted, they will need to be
water/misted every other day. For
fertiliser use a balanced orchid fertiliser during active growth. If using rain, distilled, or reverse osmosis
water, use a fertiliser formulated for pure water, or add some tap water to
supply the necessary calcium and magnesium. Fertilise very lightly every other
watering during the growing season.
POTTING MEDIUM & POTS
Cattleya hybrids will grow in a wide variety of medium,
ranging from coarse bark to the other set ups.
They can also be grown mounted if preferred. Pots can also range from
clay to plastic. With any pots, insure
there is adequate drainage. Add extra
holes to plastic pots and enlarge the bottom hole in clay pots.
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