How do I care for my Cymbidium?
With its grassy leaf, cymbidium differs just a little from other orchids. This orchid is native to cool as well as tropical regions, such as Nepal, Vietnam, Taiwan, Australia, and the Himalayas. Due to the cooler temperatures outside, cymbidium will flower in the fall, winter, or spring, depending on the species. During its flowering period, it does well in the living room. In the summer, this orchid prefers a sheltered spot in the garden.
Light
In a bright, but shaded spot, but no direct sunlight.
Temperature
Around 15 degrees Celsius. You can leave cymbidium outside under cover in the summertime.
Water
This orchid should not be overwatered. It is sufficient to water it once every seven to nine days. Water cymbidium only once its soil is almost dry.
Fertiliser Orchid
- Twice per month, feed cymbidium our special orchid fertiliser ‘Groei en bloei’. One level teaspoon per one litre of water. In February, May, and September, sprinkle one level teaspoon of ‘Grondverbeteraar’ (soil improver) once over the potting mix. The orchid does not require fertiliser from November up to and including January. Both products are sold in our shop.
Spraying flower buds
The humidity in a home can be low during the winter and summer months. Spray the smallest buds daily to prevent them from drying out and not flowering.
Soil
It is important to replant cymbidium once every three to four years in orchid potting mix. For cymbidium, Pantropica has put together a well-aerated mix of bark, coco, and peat. This mix is available at our shop.
After flowering
When the flower has finished flowering, cut off the flower’s stem at its base. Place cymbidium in a spot with as much light as possible. The orchid will generate another stem from a new shoot. This will take approximately eight to twelve months.
Tip for repotting
Cymbidium can be repotted in a larger pot if the orchid’s roots are healthy. However, if the roots are soft and/or decayed, it is recommended to remove those parts and to repot the orchid in the same pot. Tearing/dividing is also an option once cymbidium has grown beyond the edge of the pot. Divide a single plant into two plants, at the most. Next, place these plants in a pot of the same size.
Please note: Mainstream flower pots are not suitable for cymbidium. They are best planted in a pot specifically designed for orchids. These pots contain many holes providing proper drainage of excess water.