Growing Cymbidiums Orchids Tips and Guide

One of the most attractive and easy to care for orchids is the Cymbidium. This is why it remains one of the most popular choices among them.

These plants can be found growing wild in Japan, Australia, Southeast Asia and other parts of the South Pacific region. Their blooms come in a wide variety of shapes and colors. Some are long and tapered in white with red or yellow streaks. These flowers, along with their numerous leaves, make them a lovely addition to any garden.

Among the thousands of orchid species, they are one of the easiest to care for. Although they enjoy plenty of light, extended periods of direct sunlight should be avoided. On a light meter, this range would be from 2500-3500 foot candles. Try to alternate between partial shade and partial sun if possible. Brown stains and drooping flowers will result from too much sun.

Cymbidiums are happy in lots of water, as long as the drainage is good. Watering two times per week is recommended, as opposed to once with other species. The potting bark should be kept continuously moist but not soaked. Spraying the leaves once in a while is a good idea too. Using rainwater or mineralized water will prevent the build up of salt. Leach the potting material with a good drenching occasionally.

The humidity level for these plants should be at least 50%, but up to 65% is better.

Use a 30-10-10 fertilizer mix , especially during the growing season from February to August, to give your Cymbidium the nutrients it needs. Use a low nitrogen mix during the fall when they are in bloom. There are liquid and pellet fertilizers available.

These plants will attract certain types of pests, like many other plants. Scale, and red spider mites are among the most common. The flowers are a favorite treat of slugs and snails. Mites can be deterred by keeping the humidity level up. Isolation from snail prone areas or snail pellets should take care of these pests. Chemical pesticides can be safely applied to take care of mites, aphids and other pests.

As preventative maintenance, apply insecticide every two weeks for about six weeks and you shouldn't have any problems. After watering, use some snail bait. Aphids can be eliminated by washing the leaves or using an alcohol solution.

Cymbidiums are vulnerable to bacteria and fungi if they are allowed to be too wet. This species does enjoy more moisture than some. Proper spacing and air movement can reduce the risk of this happening. Watering your plant early in the day will allow it to dry before the cooler night temperatures set in. This will help to prevent fungal growth as well.

You should only need to re-pot every three years. This procedure should not be done until the blooms have dropped off. After replanting, reduce the watering to allow the plant to adjust to its new environment. You'll know that it's time to replant when it begins to grow against the edge of the pot.

         

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