Detailed Guide to Cymbidium Orchid Care: Tips for Healthy Growth

Elevate your Cymbidium orchid care with our expert tips. Ensure vibrant blooms and healthy growth with our comprehensive guide.

Let’s explore how to plant and care for Cymbidium Orchids together with xufarm.com.

Origin, Appearance, and Classification of Cymbidium Orchids

Origin of Cymbidium Orchids

Cymbidium orchids were first described by Olof Swartz in 1799. The name ‘cymbidium’ is derived from the Latin word ‘cymba,’ meaning ‘cup’ or ‘small boat’ – referring to their boat-like or cup-shaped flowers.

Cymbidium orchids originate from Asia and Australia. Interestingly, these orchids have been known for a very long time.

Furthermore, Cymbidium orchids have traditionally been used as a spice in Bhutan.

The Appearance of Cymbidium Orchids

Cymbidium orchids boast elegant, long, green leaves that encircle each pseudobulb. The plant itself can grow fairly tall, reaching up to 60 cm.

You might also encounter miniature varieties, with heights ranging from 10 to 20 cm. These petite orchids come in a dazzling array of colors, except for blue. They exude fragility and grace with their long-lasting, delicate blooms.

Due to the weight of both flowers and leaves, your Cymbidium orchid may require staking. Be careful when positioning the stakes to avoid damaging the roots.

Common Types of Cymbidium Orchids

There’s a wide array of Cymbidium orchid varieties, some of the most intriguing include:

• Cymbidium eburneum: Known for its ivory-white flowers with hints of purple, it’s one of the most popular varieties.
• Cymbidium aloifolium: These strongly scented orchids come in various shades of yellow and red.
• Cymbidium kanran: Featuring highly fragrant blooms with distinctive spikes, they are vivid green with red accents.
• Cymbidium dayanum: Boasting brown flowers with yellow elements.
• Cymbidium ensifolium: In contrast to other varieties, it can withstand higher temperatures. Its flowers range from green to light brown.

Cymbidium Orchid Blooms

These orchids bloom from mid-fall to mid-spring, producing vibrant, long-lasting flowers.

To enhance the blooming process, provide the necessary cooler temperatures daily. Cymbidium orchid flowers emerge from the stems, with spikes appearing in late summer and early autumn. Since spikes do not produce new blooms, it’s advisable to trim the spent stem after the flowering period, using a sharp, sterilized tool.

Cymbidium Orchid Care

Sunlight

Although Cymbidium orchids enjoy exposure to sunlight, it should be diffused light. Never place the orchid pot in direct sunlight as it can scorch the plant.

Instead, try to find a location with shade. If you still choose to keep your Cymbidium orchid by the window, make sure it’s facing away from direct sunlight. You should hang some light-colored, thick curtains to protect the plant from direct sunlight during peak hours.

When outdoors, Cymbidium orchids prefer partially shaded areas, such as under trees or dense shrubs. If the leaves start to darken, it means the plant isn’t receiving enough sunlight. Move it to a brighter location.

Without sufficient light, Cymbidium orchids won’t be able to bloom. Additionally, ensure you provide enough sunlight during the winter months.

Cymbidium Orchid Care – Temperature

Caring for Cymbidium orchids is quite easy when it comes to temperature requirements. They can tolerate colder temperatures compared to most other orchid varieties. Generally, Cymbidium orchids prefer moderate room temperatures, around 20°C (68°F). Never let the temperature exceed 30°C (86°F).

These orchids benefit from experiencing cooler temperatures to stimulate the flowering process. They can even survive at very low temperatures, as low as 5°C (41°F). During the cold season, you can maintain temperatures between 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) until you see flower spikes appearing and growing vigorously.

Cymbidium Orchid Care – Watering

Caring for Cymbidium orchids involves moderate watering, typically once a week is sufficient. Pay attention to their water needs during the growing season in spring and summer – Cymbidium orchids will require more water during this time.

Water quality is also crucial – Cymbidium orchids can be sensitive to certain chemicals in tap water. Instead, use rainwater or distilled water. Never let the growing medium become completely dry. Aim to maintain it 50% dry and 50% moist. You can check the roots before watering; they should be plump and have a greenish-white color.

Professional Tip: Since these orchids prefer a porous medium with good drainage, sometimes water may just flow through the pot without being absorbed by the medium. To prevent this, place the entire pot in a container filled with water and let it soak for 5 to 10 minutes.

Humidity

Cymbidium orchids prefer moderate humidity, ranging from 40 to 60%. However, make sure their roots are not submerged in water as they can rot. Additionally, you can use a humidifier purchased from a store.

Occasionally, you should mist the leaves, especially when the weather is sunny. Do this in the mornings to allow excess water to evaporate during the day, preventing overly damp leaves that can attract various pests and diseases.

Growing Medium

Cymbidium orchids are semi-terrestrial plants, meaning they need a well-draining and aerated growing medium. You should use a potting mix specifically designed for orchids that has a slightly acidic pH and excellent drainage.

Also, ensure that the pot has enough drainage holes to promote good water and air circulation.

Fertilization

During the growing season (spring and summer), you can fertilize once or twice a week. Reduce the frequency in the fall, and especially in the winter – then, once a month is sufficient.

When buying fertilizer, choose types formulated for orchids. Be cautious not to over-fertilize as it can damage the roots. Excessive fertilization can also lead to salt buildup in the growing medium. You can leach out harmful salts by flushing the pot with distilled or rainwater once a month.

Repotting

Always wait until the flowering period has ended before repotting. The ideal time is early spring, from February to May. You won’t need to repot Cymbidium orchids for two or three years.

Repot if you notice that the growing medium in the pot is deteriorating or if the roots are outgrowing the pot.

When repotting, carefully inspect the roots to remove any dead or rotting ones. You can also trim healthy roots, but do not make them shorter than 15-20 cm.

Remove the old pot and place the plant in a new pot with fresh growing medium.

Professional tip: When choosing a new pot, consider that Cymbidium orchids will grow in it for another two or three years, so make sure the new pot is large enough. However, do not select a pot that is too large, as it can encourage root growth while the upper parts of the plant may become stagnant.

Common Issues When Caring for Cymbidium Orchids

There are several common issues you may encounter when caring for Cymbidium orchids. Let’s see what they are and how to deal with them.

Dealing with Yellowing Leaves

If you notice yellowing leaves on your Cymbidium orchid, it may be due to the plant receiving too much direct sunlight. The leaves will turn pale brown, become brittle, and dry out.

Find a new location with more shade. When searching for a new spot, remember that window glass can intensify light and heat.

Dealing with Browning Leaves

If the leaves are turning brown and drying out, the plant may not be receiving enough water. Check the growing medium and see if it’s adequately moist.

It could also indicate a root issue if the root system cannot absorb enough water. Sunburn, pests, or rotting roots could hinder water absorption.

Dealing with Bacterial and Fungal Infections

The cause of yellowing leaves can also be fungal infection. In this case, the leaves will eventually turn brown and then black. Black spots may also appear on the root system.

Fungal infections occur due to poor drainage or overwatering. Remember that overwatering is one of the major issues in orchid care.

Stale air can also lead to fungal infections. In any case, you need to use a fungicide to protect the plant.

Dealing with Pest Issues

Dealing with pests is an important aspect of caring for Cymbidium orchids.

Although Cymbidium orchids are not highly susceptible to pests, some invaders may appear near your Cymbidium orchid – such as spider mites, thrips, and scales. The long, slender leaves are perfect hiding spots for spider mites. To prevent pest issues, bathe the plant in warm water once a month.

If the plant has been attacked by pests, use an appropriate insecticide for orchids.

Frequently Asked Questions on Cymbidium Orchid Care

Should You Prune Cymbidium Orchids?

The flower spikes cannot produce new blooms after the flowering period ends.

Therefore, when caring for Cymbidium orchids after they have bloomed, you can trim the spikes (do this just above the third node from the base of the stem) to encourage new growth in that manner.

When repotting, you can also trim excess roots. Orchid roots tend to grow above the surface, striving to reach sunlight.

How to Get Cymbidium Orchids to Bloom Again?

When the flowering period comes to an end, carefully prune the stems. Trim them close to the base of the plant. Regularly caring for Cymbidium orchids during the remaining months of the year will stimulate growth and new flowering.