You CAN Grow Orchids!

by Dottie LaRocca

One of the easiest orchids to grow is the Cymbidium.  It can be grown outdoors except in the coldest of climates, if some care is taken.  In the winter, move the planters under the eaves of your house, or under a covered
patio.  If this precaution is taken, they can survive to the low 20's.

When you purchase your Cymbidium, you'll notice some of the bulbs look dead.   They're NOT!  These are called "back bulbs", and they help the bulbs that have leaves by storing nutrients that the "live" bulbs can draw from.  As
long as the "back bulbs" feel firm when you gently squeeze them, they're alive and serving their purpose.

Orchids should be planted in planters with excellent drainage, in a planting mix made for orchids. This is often a mixture that's high in bark, and can be purchased at most home supply stores.  Notice that most of the base of
the bulbs are above the planting mix.  Always plant at the same level as when they were purchased.

Cymbidiums like to be slightly crowded, so it's not necessary to divide, or repot until they are VERY crowded.

Cymbidiums are hearty eaters, so they need frequent feeding.  One of the easiest ways to feed  them, is to purchase a continuous feeding fertilizer such as Osmocote, for acid loving plants.  This allows you to feed the orchid each time you water, for up to 3 months. You can also purchase orchid fertilizer in granular form, which can be mixed with water, and used each time you water. 

Follow the directions on the containers for the correct amount to use.  Speaking of water, if you live in a very hot, dry climate, misting the plant during the hottest part of the day is very beneficial, with a good drenching several times a week.  If you live in an area that's not so hot and dry, a thorough drenching once a week should be sufficient.

If the leaves on your Cymbidium are a lush, dark green, they're probably not getting enough sun, and the plant may not bloom.  The leaves should be slightly yellowish green.  Morning, and/or late afternoon sun are the best, if you can get it.  If not, light shade during the hottest part of the day is helpful. 

When new growth starts, it's hard to tell the difference between new leaves and a flower "spike", but as the growth gets larger, the leaf spike will begin to separate into individual leaves, while the flower spike will remain closed.  When you see that closed spike, you'll know that you've succeeded, and a beautiful spray of orchids is on the way.