Troubleshooting
Catasetum expansum problems — and how to fix them
Catasetum expansum (Catasetum expansum) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Watering during dormancy
The leading cause of loss is watering the leafless plant, which rots roots. Keep it dry until new spring roots are several centimetres long.
Spider mites
Soft pleated leaves attract spider mites in warm, dry, still air. Inspect undersides and treat promptly at first sign of stippling.
Failure to bloom
Inadequate light or feeding yields small pseudobulbs that won't flower. Grow bright and feed heavily while the plant is in leaf.
Pseudobulb shrivel in rest
Excessive dryness over-shrinks bulbs; a light occasional misting during dormancy keeps them firm without wetting the roots.
Prevent catasetum expansum problems before they start
Most catasetum expansum issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for catasetum expansum in general rather than its problems? Read the full catasetum expansum care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Catasetum expansum problems — FAQ
Why is my catasetum expansum watering during dormancy?
The leading cause of loss is watering the leafless plant, which rots roots. Keep it dry until new spring roots are several centimetres long.
Why is my catasetum expansum spider mites?
Soft pleated leaves attract spider mites in warm, dry, still air. Inspect undersides and treat promptly at first sign of stippling.
Why is my catasetum expansum failure to bloom?
Inadequate light or feeding yields small pseudobulbs that won't flower. Grow bright and feed heavily while the plant is in leaf.
Why is my catasetum expansum pseudobulb shrivel in rest?
Excessive dryness over-shrinks bulbs; a light occasional misting during dormancy keeps them firm without wetting the roots.