Cymbidium

It’s a genus with 52 especies often called “boat orchid”. It is native to temperate climates, with light frosts, of the humid and rainy regions of Asia.

They are some of the more common orchids grown in the world, because of it’s easy growing and their great beauty; there are several hybrids already produced with a huge variety of colors.  Besides, they are very popular as cut flowers for arrangements because they last longer than other species.

Standard species can reach between 2 to 4 feet in height, while “miniatures” reach up to 2 feet.

knowing your orchid:

 

 

 

general care:

 

WATER: It’s important to water them only in the mornings with room temperature water so that the leaves and new growths have time to dry before the temperature drops in the evening.  Excess water can be a focus of infection and can damage the plant.  These orchids need abundant waterings and to maintain humidity during their active growth period (spring-summer); they don’t like getting dry between waterings, but avoid keeping them soaked!!

 The frequency of waterings will depend on your climate and the time of the year; waterings should be more frequent and abundant during the hot months and if your climate is dry, you may need to water up to 3 times a week, fertilizing only once a week. During the winter and in cold zones, the watering and the feedings can be spaced every 7 to 10 days to avoid root rot. It will also depend on the type of media you’re growing them in.

 

RELATIVE HUMIDITY:  

40% – 60%.

If your HR is to high, it’s very important to have good ventilation to prevent diseases.  To increase your HR, please visit our post  “Tips to increase Relative Humidity“.

TEMPERATURE: 

Día: 75ºC – 85ºC

Noche: 50ºC – 60ºC  

This genus enjoys cooler temperatures.  During the summer and autumn, when they start to grow new stems, they are comfortable with the temperatures mentioned.   However, during the winter when the growth of new buds begins, they prefer colder temperatires.  Day: 65ºF – 75ºF   / Night: 45ºF – 55ºF    They are ideal for areas with drastic weather changes and cold winters.  Miniatures can tolerate about 8ºF above standard Cymbidiums and are great for more moderate weathers.

It’s ideal that there is a difference of 15ºF to 20ºF between day and night temperatures to promote new growths (leaves, stems and roots). If your temperature is higher that the ideal, you’ll have to increase the RH, airing and waterings, to avoid premature withering of the flowers and buds and the dehydration of your plant.

MEDUM TO HIGH LIGHT: they need bright and abundant light, without exposing directly to the sun.  Using the Shadow Trick (see Basic Care: Light Issues section), the shadow from your hand should be grey to dark grey and defined.  Ideal locations: east, south or west facing windows with a sheer curtain. The correct amount of light given will be reflected on the color of their leaves that should be a light yellowish green.

ARTIFICIAL LIGHT:  four tube 40 watt fluorescent fixtures placed 6″ to 12″ above the leaves for 10 to 12 hours a day.

These are the IDEAL conditions, however, orchids are more adaptable than we think!!  You\’ll just have to put a bit more effort accommodating them in their new environment.  Look for tips in our Magazine!

to know more about nutrition, growing media and basic care, click below:

 

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