Cymbidium Orchid Growing
What is a Cymbidium orchid? It’s a native of tropical areas of Australia and Asia. Cymbidiums are prized for their long sprays of blooms, which make lovely arrangements as well as corsages. Their thick, waxy petals open in the spring and often remain on their stems for up to two months. Cymbidium orchids are different from most other varieties in that they thrive on cooler weather and often won’t even bloom if the daytime temperature gets too hot. They do need a lot of moisture, however, so think about a cooler jungle when you’re considering the environment where you want to plant them.
How to Care for Cymbidium Orchids
Cymbidium orchid care is just as detailed as that of other orchids, but it can be simpler if you already have the right environment at hand. These orchids love bright, cool places with a lot of moisture in the air. Florida winters are ideal, as are the northern states in the summer. The first ingredient you need for successful Cymbidium growing is sunlight. Make sure they are planted where they get full sun during the entire day. If you live in a particularly warm environment, give the flowers shade during the heat of the day. You can tell if they are getting enough sunlight when the leaves are a bright yellow-green, not a dark green. Cymbidiums can tolerate cooler weather; in fact, they prefer it. However, if the temperature at night falls below 40 degrees F. (4 C.), bring the plants in and store them in a cool basement overnight. If you have access to a bright enclosed porch, this is ideal for winter storage. Care for Cymbidium orchid’s moisture needs by giving them a constant source of water. The potting medium should be constantly moist, but not dripping wet. Stand the pot on a tray of pebbles and keep a pool of water in the pebbles, if you’re going to grow your orchids indoors. Wait two or three years before you repot your orchid. This variety seems to like being a little crowded in its pot. When you see the little pseudobulbs pushing out through the potting medium, it’s time to give your plant a new home.
