Light: Bright, indirect light. Ideally, as much light as possible, in areas such as sunrooms, or southern facing windowsills. When growing outside, they can tolerate cool morning sun until about 10 am. The leaves should be medium green, leaves that are deep green are a result of too little light.
Temperature: The ideal temperature during the day is 65 to 85¡F. Cymbidiums can grow outside in semi-shade areas in these temperatures, however the night temperatures should be between 50-60¡ during the fall months, with winter night temperatures between 45-55¡. Bring the plants inside if colder than 35¡. These orchids can easily been grown outside in milder climates.
Watering: It is perferable to water in the morning hours. Cymbidiums should never be allow to dry out completely. These terrestrial orchids need to be watered 2 times per week in winter, and 2-3 times per week during the long days of summer. If the leaf tips begin to turn black or brown, this is a sign of water deficiency or water with a high salt level. Keeping your Cymbidium moist during the flowering period with significantly extend the flower life of the blooms.
Feeding: Cymbidiums are medium feeders and require fertilizing every third watering most of the year. Use Gublers Pro Blend Orchid Food 19-8-16. This formula is exactly what we use to grow our Cymbidiums. Stop feeding with high nitrogen foods in late August through October. (A fertilizer high in Phosphorus, such as a 10-20-10 food can be used, but is not necessary).
Repotting: Should be done once every 12 to 18 months. It is best to repot after the Cymbidium is done flowering. Plants that have overgrown their container should be potted into a suitable container the next size larger. You may choose any container, provided it has good bottom drainage. We do not recommend pots with slits on the side. Transplant using Gublers Orchid Grow Mix, Fine grade. If you choose to divide you cymbidum, be sure that your division has at least 3-4 bulbs (with leaves). Please keep in mind that plants that are divided generally do not bloom on the next flowering cycle.
What to expect: Cymbidium flowers have been used in flower arrangements and corsages for decades. Flowers are medium sized with waxy pedals and are long lasting. Most Cymbidiums we hybridize bloom in the winter months, producing ten to sixteen flowers per stem. Flowers should last approximately four to six weeks, depending on your growing conditions. Cymbidiums are a good beginner orchid, and make a wonderful addition to any orchid collection.
