Cymbidium orchid care guide

Cymbidium orchids, also known as Boat Orchids, are one of the oldest orchids in cultivation, and described by the esteemed Chinese philosopher Confucius as the “king of fragrant flowers”. Cymbidiums grow well here in Melbourne, as the climate is similar to their natural environment which is the mountainous areas of India and Asia.

Caring for your Cymbidium

Cymbidiums are tough and easy to grow as long as you can get a few things right:

• Light is important for a healthy cymbidium. The optimal position is where it gets 50% shade for most of the day. If the orchid’s leaves are a mid-green colour, then the light level is probably adequate. Direct sun can burn, so give the orchid protection by placing under a tree canopy where it gets filtered light, or under a pergola covered by shade cloth.

• Air must be able to move freely around the plant, so ensure they are not too tightly spaced.

• As a rule of thumb when it comes to watering, water every couple of days in Summer, every 4-5 days in Autumn and Spring, and once a week in Winter. This is just a guide, so check the top of the mix. If the plant seems dry, then water it. They should not be allowed to completely dry out.

• Fertilising is important – a 9 month slow release fertiliser such as Osmocote is a good option and should be applied at the start of Spring. Orchids also like a little application of Dolomite Lime at the start of Spring to provide the plant with calcium.

• When repotting cymbidium orchids, ensure you use a specially blended orchid potting mix rather than a standard potting mix.

Information source: Cymbidium Orchid Society of Victoria