Cymbidiums originate from cool areas in Asia, being found
growing on tree forks, stumps, damp rocky slopes with lots of tree litter and
logs. They need very bright indirect light and cool to cold growing conditions.
Water frequently in summer and spring. Water can be reduced a bit in autumn and
about once a week in winter to keep soil moist. Cymbidiums flower in winter.
Ideal summer day temperatures are 24 – 29 ºC or more. Late summer to
autumn night temperatures should be between 10 – 15 ºC to initiate flower spike growth. Ideal
winter day temperatures are 18 – 24 ºC.
Ideal winter night temperatures are between 7 – 12 ºC. Temperatures below 4 degrees at night may
harm the plant and frost is not good.
Humidity levels of 40 – 60% are ideal. Good airflow is
important when plants are in flower to prevent botrytis spots on flowers.
Fertilise with high nitrogen fertiliser during growth season – spring to late
summer (30 – 10 – 10). Swap to a high phosphorus blossom-booster fertiliser in
late summer to grow the flower spikes (10 – 30 – 20). Fertilise at full
strength every week to fortnight during spring-summer-autumn. In winter
fertilise once a month.
Repot next spring into a 7 inch pot in coir and perlite mix (provides a well drained, non-soggy mix).