Long flower stems, large blooms and a preference for cooler temperatures: the Cymbidium is an orchid with slightly different characteristics from many other varieties. It mainly flowers in autumn and winter and can even be placed outdoors temporarily during the summer. But when is the Cymbidium available, how do you care for this orchid and how can you encourage it to flower again? In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Cymbidium.

 

Everything you want to know about the Cymbidium

The Cymbidium is recognisable by its long flower stems, each carrying six or more flowers. The plant has at least one stem, but often produces several. The older the plant, the more stems it can produce. Cymbidium flowers come in a wide range of colours, from white, yellow, green, pink and red to brown.

The flowers are sturdy and have a rather classic appearance. This means the Cymbidium works well in both modern and more traditional interiors. Another advantage is that the flowers stay looking beautiful for a long time, allowing you to enjoy them for several weeks.

 

 

A flowering period of 8 – 10 weeks

The Cymbidium is available from August to March and has an average flowering period of 8 – 10 weeks. Of course, proper care, the right position and the temperature all play an important role in how long the flowers last – see our tips below.

Has your Cymbidium finished flowering? Don’t throw it away. With the right care, the plant can produce new flower stems. Cut off the spent stem and place the plant somewhere cool and light. If the outdoor temperature is above 10°C, you can move the Cymbidium outside to encourage flowering. Just remember to bring it back indoors when temperatures drop below 5°C.

 

 

Caring for a Cymbidium

The Cymbidium is generally easy to care for. With these tips, you can keep your plant healthy and enjoy its flowers for as long as possible:

• Give your Cymbidium plenty of light, as this orchid likes bright conditions. However, avoid strong, direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
• Choose a cool spot in your home, such as a hallway, conservatory, garden room or bedroom.
• Water your Cymbidium once a week by placing the plant in a shallow layer of water for around three minutes, allowing the roots to absorb the moisture. Let it drain thoroughly before placing the orchid back in its decorative pot.
• Keep the temperature between 12°C and 25°C. The cooler the Cymbidium is kept, the longer it will flower.
• For optimum flowering, feed your Cymbidium once a month.

 

Can a Cymbidium be kept outdoors?

From April to October, you can place a Cymbidium outdoors, as long as the temperature stays above 10°C. Choose a sheltered spot, such as a balcony or patio. Avoid strong afternoon sunlight and opt for a bright spot with indirect light instead. It’s also best to protect the plant from strong winds and prolonged exposure to rain.

 

Also read: How to create a tropical terrace with orchids

 

You can enjoy your orchid during the summer months too, when we spend a lot of time outdoors. Most orchid species can be placed outside, and they look so nice on your terrace or balcony! Did you know that there are special garden orchids too? Read all about it in this article!

Orchids on your terrace or balcony

A number of orchid species such as Cymbidium, Dendrobium and Cambria can happily be placed outside in spring and summer in order to bring colour to your garden table or balcony. By putting your Orchid outside you encourage the plant the produce buds. But do keep a close eye on the outdoor temperature, especially in the evening. It should not be less than 9 °C or more than 25 °C. Choose a spot out of the wind and in the shade. Avoid bright afternoon sun and take advantage of the mild morning and evening sun. Do water your plant a bit more often when it’s outdoors! Important to note: make sure there are no snails around.

Also read: Garden trends with outdoor orchids

 

Garden orchids

There are also special garden orchids available, such as Dactylorhiza and Epipactus. These species can generally cope well with full sun, provided that the plants always have moisture available. Good places for planting are along the edge of a pond for example. Make sure that the roots are not constantly under water; because they don’t like that. They’re actually waterside plants. If you don’t have a pond in your garden, then it’s better to place the Dactylorhiza and Epipactus in partial shade.

Garden orchids grow in areas where the temperature can drop below -20 °C. These orchids protect themselves by staying below ground in the winter. In the spring they emerge from the ground and within 3 to 4 weeks they are already in bloom. After this you have 3 to 8 weeks of enjoyment – depending on the variety.

Read all about the garden orchid in this article!

  

Photos: Judith Prins Tuinorchideeën