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🌸 Cattleya 'Cherry Bee' Terrarium Care Sheet (Vented Setup)Overview:
Cattleya 'Cherry Bee' is a compact hybrid with striking, cherry-toned flowers and a pleasant fragrance. It can thrive in a vented terrarium if key environmental conditions are met, especially good airflow and adequate light.📏 Size & Growth Habit
Type: Epiphytic hybrid orchid
Mature Size: ~15–20 cm tall (excluding inflorescence)
Growth Rate: Moderate
Structure: Pseudobulb-forming with leathery, upright leaves
💡 Light Requirements
Intensity: Bright, indirect light (2,000–3,000 foot-candles)
Ideal Placement: Near a north- or east-facing window or under full-spectrum grow lights for 12–14 hours/day
Caution: Avoid direct midday sun—can scorch leaves
🌡 Temperature & Humidity
Daytime: 22–28°C
Nighttime: 15–20°C
Humidity: 60–80%
Ventilation: Essential—use small fans or open the terrarium periodically to avoid fungal issues
💧 Watering & Moisture
Watering Frequency: Every 5–7 days during active growth; reduce in cooler months
Water Type: Rainwater, distilled, or reverse osmosis water
Drainage: Must be excellent; never allow roots to sit in water
🌱 Mounting & Medium
Preferred Mounting: Cork bark or hardwood slab with moss pad, if humidity remains stable
Potting Option: Small orchid pot with coarse bark and perlite mix
Terrarium Base: Raised mesh/plastic platform to avoid waterlogging; sphagnum moss can be used sparingly
🌬 Airflow
Even though it's a terrarium setup, strong airflow is critical.
Use vent holes or fans
Open the terrarium daily if sealed
Avoid stagnant conditions—Cattleyas are prone to rot if airflow is poor
🌸 Flowering & Rest
Bloom Season: Late spring to summer (varies)
Fragrance: Sweet and noticeable
Rest Period: Mild winter rest; reduce water and fertilizer slightly, but don’t let it shrivel
🌿 Fertilizer
Type: Balanced orchid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20 or similar)
Frequency: Every 2 weeks during growth; monthly in cooler periods
Dilution: Use at 1/4 to 1/2 strength
⚠️ Common Issues
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Leaf yellowing | Too much direct sun | Move to filtered light |
| Pseudobulb rot | Overwatering or stagnant air | Improve drainage and airflow |
| No flowers | Insufficient light or nutrients | Increase light gradually and fertilize regularly |
✅ Tips for Terrarium Success
Ensure vented or open-top design for airflow
Avoid high humidity with no ventilation—this is the main cause of failure with Cattleya in terrariums
Choose a small specimen or division for compact spaces
Inspect frequently for mold or rot