Troubleshooting
Crested Catasetum problems — and how to fix them
Crested Catasetum (Catasetum cristatum) 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.
Overwatering during dormancy
Watering a leafless plant causes pseudobulb and root rot. Once leaves drop, stop watering entirely until new spring growth produces roots at least 5 cm long.
Insufficient light reducing flower count
Low light produces only a few pale male flowers or causes failure to bloom. Move to a brighter position or supplement with high-output grow lights for 14+ hours daily during the growing season.
Scale insects on pseudobulbs
Scale can colonise the pseudobulbs, especially during dormancy. Inspect pseudobulbs regularly and treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab or systemic insecticide at the first sign of infestation.
Prevent crested catasetum problems before they start
Most crested catasetum issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Crested Catasetum problems — FAQ
Why is my crested catasetum overwatering during dormancy?
Watering a leafless plant causes pseudobulb and root rot. Once leaves drop, stop watering entirely until new spring growth produces roots at least 5 cm long.
Why is my crested catasetum insufficient light reducing flower count?
Low light produces only a few pale male flowers or causes failure to bloom. Move to a brighter position or supplement with high-output grow lights for 14+ hours daily during the growing season.
Why is my crested catasetum scale insects on pseudobulbs?
Scale can colonise the pseudobulbs, especially during dormancy. Inspect pseudobulbs regularly and treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab or systemic insecticide at the first sign of infestation.