Orchid Cymbidium Care

Cymbidium (pronounced sym-BID-ee-um) orchids are prized for their long-lasting sprays of flowers, used especially as cut flowers or for corsages in the spring. The popularity of miniature Cymbidium is now spreading from the foothills of the Himalayas to the worldwide orchid community. These ancient flowers have been treasured for their fragrance and long leaves for nearly two thousand years.

Cymbidium Light
Coming from cool and bright areas in Asia, they need high light, but cool temperatures. The maximum amount of light possible should be given to the plants. This means only light shade during the middle of the day, or about 20 percent shade. Leaves should be a medium to golden green in color, not dark green.

Cymbidium Temperature
Temperatures are another critical factor in flowering cymbidiums. Optimum temperatures are 75 to 85 F during the summer days and 50 to 60 F during the night to initiate flower spikes. Optimum temperatures in winter are 65 to 75 F during the day and 45 to 55 F at night. High summer temperatures, especially at night, may prevent the plants from blooming.

Cymbidium Water
They need the most water during the spring and summer when they produce their vegetative growth. Water heavily during the growth season, keeping the potting material evenly moist. Reduce water when the pseudobulbs complete growing in late summer. Keep barely moist during the winter.

Cymbidium Humidity
Humidity outdoors is usually sufficient during the summer, except in dry climates, where evaporative cooling in a greenhouse is necessary. Keep humidity at 40 to 60 percent during the winter, especially if plants are in bud. Keep the air moving to prevent fungus from spotting the flowers.

Cymbidium Feeding
Fertilize at the proper time to help cymbidiums flower. During the growth season (spring through late summer), high nitrogen fertilizer is used. In late summer, use a high-phosphorus, blossom-booster fertilizer, to help form bloom spikes. Fertilize at full strength every week to two weeks, and once a month in winter. It’s important to flush with clear water once a month.

Cymbidium Potting
Potting is usually done in the spring after flowering, usually every two years or when the potting medium decomposes. These orchids need moisture at the roots at all times and correspondingly good drainage. Since these plants grow enormous bulbs, a large pot is recommended.