Care & Upkeep for Cymbidium Orchids

The cymbidium is a subtropical orchid with sprays of long-lasting thick, waxy flowers that grow in a wide variety of colors. You may enjoy a stunning spring orchid display if you keep a few cultural tips in mind.

Temperature and Humidity

• Native to Southeast Asia and Australia, the cymbidium prefers mild temperatures, but it can tolerate temperatures ranging from 29 degrees Fahrenheit to 100 degrees Fahrenheit for short periods of time, according to the Cymbidium Society of America. Cymbidiums require 50 percent to 60 percent humidity.

Lighting

• Provide cymbidiums filtered sunlight from spring through fall. Foliage color should be a golden-green. Deep-green leaves indicate insufficient light. Place cymbidiums in shade when flower buds appear.

Watering

• Water cymbidiums two or three times per week during warm months and once per week or less in winter. Never let cymbidiums dry out completely, the American Orchid Society advises.

Soil and Repotting

• Cymbidiums prefer a light, well-draining growing medium that contains one or more of the following ingredients: bark, perlite, redwood compost, coarse peat moss, sand and crushed volcanic rock. Repot cymbidiums every two or three years in spring after they have flowered.

Fertilizing

• The American Orchid Society recommends feeding cymbidiums on a weekly basis with a half-strength solution of 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 fertilizer.