This cattleya could still be saved...

[orchid_killer]

My 3rd problem orchid, a cattleya. I told you I'm the orchid_killer.

My cattleyas don't go indoors in the winter. My mom told me they are not finicky. They seem to be okay with short freezing temps. I live in Jacksonville, FL, so there were a few days of 30 degrees. It gets soaked once a week, leaving water in the drip tray inside and outside the pot. The pot is designed so that the orchid mix inside the pot doesn't touch the water in the drip tray.

Before picture. I was told to remove the sphag so I'm repotting everything. The leaves are firm, some are a little darker green than it should be, so I thought it needed more light, but then some of the other leaves are red, so I don't know. And the texture is wrinkly. I think it should be smooth, right?


The roots... YUCK. BUT WAIT... do you see that teeny-tiny green dot of a root right there??? THERE IS HOPE!


After repotting in special orchid mix, cutting all dead roots and leaves:


So, what happened here? What to do next?

THANK YOU very very very much!

[Lizgeo]

I can see little green is growing there, and 3 remaining canes are firm. I think this catt can be saved. I would leave it in a bright spot but not in direct sun, maybe move it to sunnier location after you see new roots... Good luck!

[Brutal_Dreamer]

The red ting to the leaves could be because the orchid is a purple or reddish bloomer. This orchid needs more light. Gradually increase its light. Now that you got it out of the spag, be sure to let it dry out between watering. Catts like to get completely dry. Good luck!

Cheers,
BD