Use and Care Guide

Cymbidium
The Cymbidium group is a subfamily of the Epidendrum, with over 45 species.
This group is made up of two main types, standard size and miniatures. Their
waxy flowers are long lasting and often used in corsages and cut flower arrangements.
The name "Cymbidium" comes from the latin word cymba, which means boat,
referring to the shape of the lip. Like Cattleyas, they store water and nutrients in
Pseudobulbs. They bloom on the mature new growth of the plant. Most Cymbidiums
bloom between January and April depending on the species or hybrid.
How to keep your Cymbidium healthy
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 preferable to water in the morning hours. Cymbidiums should never be allowed 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 Gubler 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 Cymbidium, 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.