Cattleya dowiana | Self-Watering & Leca Care | The Queen of Cattleyas #CareCollab #ninjaorchids
Channel: ᑎIᑎᒎᗩ_ᗝᖇᑕᕼIᗪᔕ🌸
Date: 06/06/2021

#Cattleyadowiana #SelfWateringLeca #CentralAmerica
Reputed to be a FINICKY / FUSSY #orchid in this video, I explain how I grow my Cattley dowiana in conditions that are not conducive to it's liking for most of the year. When the humidity is high enough, my temperatures are too low for it's liking. When the temperatures are perfect for what it likes, then I have no humidity at all! This video proves, it can be done... and no, I do not see any fuss in the years that I have been growing my 2 Cattleya dowianas. Cattleya dowiana is a highly sought-after orchid species prized for its stunning blooms and captivating fragrance. Here's a comprehensive guide to its care, natural habitat, and unique characteristics:
Natural Habitat:
This Cattleya species is native to the Atlantic rainforests of southeastern Brazil, thriving in warm, humid environments with dappled sunlight.
It's an epiphyte, meaning it grows on trees using aerial roots to absorb moisture and nutrients from the air.
Temperature Tolerance:
Cattleya dowiana prefers warm to hot temperatures. Ideally, maintain daytime temperatures between 75-85°F (24-29°C) and nighttime temperatures around 60-65°F (15-18°C).
Avoid extreme fluctuations in temperature, as this can stress the plant.
Fragrance:
One of Cattleya dowiana's most captivating features is its intoxicating fragrance. Often described as sweet, spicy, or citrusy, the scent intensifies in warmer temperatures.
The fragrance is strongest in the morning and evening hours.
Cattleya dowiana Care:
Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Watering: Water when the roots turn silver-grey. Allow for good drainage to prevent root rot. Consider using a moisture meter for optimal watering.
Humidity: Maintain high humidity levels (around 60-80%) by misting regularly, using a pebble tray, or a humidifier.
Potting: Use a well-draining orchid potting medium like orchid bark or leca to ensure proper aeration. Repot every 2-3 years when the plant outgrows its pot or the medium degrades.
Fertilizing: Apply a weak orchid fertilizer during the active growth phase (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage the roots.
Additional Tips:
Cattleya dowiana can be mounted on a cork bark or other suitable material instead of being potted.
Good air circulation is essential to prevent fungal diseases.
Regular cleaning of the leaves with lukewarm water can help prevent pests and diseases.
With proper care, Cattleya dowiana will reward you with breathtaking blooms and a captivating fragrance, making it a true centerpiece for any orchid collection.
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JOIN THE CARECOLLAB INITIATIVE: 
Would you like to participate in this concept? Do you have an orchid that I grow, or someone else grows? Do you make videos? Please watch this video of 'GOALS 2021' for the guidelines in order to make this initiative work https://youtu.be/NoSEndy8r1g alternatively, email me using the link below for more information. Thank you! 
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PARTICIPATING CHANNELS:
Karin's Orchids: https://youtu.be/st5A13I7kEM
Ed's Orchids: https://cutt.ly/Xnz5Wgy
MattbyNature: https://youtu.be/3ZMuJru3gMM
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I really appreciate the fact that you took the time to watch my video. I am very open to any comments or questions, this video may have brought up. Feel free to ask away and know that I will get back to you as soon as possible! Also, if you have any suggestions that you would like me to address in a video, mention them in the comments below and I will be happy to film a personalized video under the series 'Subscribers Inspire'!
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My environment: 
Mediterranean climate, hot summers / mild winters 
45% - 85% humidity, with regular airflow 
Summer temperature range:               20ºC-35ºC 
Winter temperature range, exterior:   5ºC-20ºC 
Winter temperature range, interior:    16ºC-23ºC
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Music:  Berlin At Night - Dan Henig
              Amazement - Freedom Trail Studio
Thumbnail / Outro Image:   Bodum.westernscandinavia.org
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