4 Planting of Chinese Cymbidium Orchids
Chinese Cymbidium orchids are captivating flowers prized for their delicate beauty and cultural significance in China. Chinese Cymbidium orchids find ideal conditions in the fertile soils of lowland, damp forests. They are popular houseplants due to their adaptability, readily flourishing in well-aerated, nutrient-rich potting mix.
This article focuses on the planting of Cymbidium goeringii and Cymbidium faberi within the realm of Chinese Cymbidium orchids cultivation. Due to the increased complexity involved, planting techniques for other orchid species of will not be covered.
4.1 Growth environment
Temperature
Temperature plays a critical role in the growth and flowering of Chinese Cymbidium orchids. Understanding their preferences and tolerances is essential for successful cultivation. Good air movement is essential for Cymbidium growth. Ventilate the greenhouse whenever the weather permits. A strong fan to circulate the greenhouse air is also beneficial. Plants standing outside will be well ventilated.
A lot of Chinese Cymbidium cannot grow outdoors all year long. You will need to transplant them indoors in winter, as even the slightest frost can kill your Chinese Cymbidium. You will also need to bring it indoors during rainy seasons, as too much water can result in root rot. Also, high winds outdoors can break Chinese Cymbidium stems, so planting it in a windproof location is recommended.
Optimal temperature range
- Daytime: 18-24°C
- Nighttime: 4-10°C
- Overall: 21-30°C
Tolerance
- High temperatures: Up to 35°C for most cultivars, some can handle higher with appropriate shading and air circulation.
- Low temperatures: Can withstand down to -5°C for short periods, some hardier cultivars even lower.
Key considerations
- Nighttime temperature fluctuations: Cooler nights are essential for triggering bloom initiation and promoting robust growth.
- Sun exposure: Requires partial shade during peak sun hours, especially in high temperatures.
- Humidity: Thrives in 50-70% humidity; adjust watering and misting accordingly.
- Winter protection: In colder climates, implement measures to avoid frost and freezing temperatures.
- Greenhouse cultivation: Offers optimal temperature control.
Special considerations
- Differentiate temperature tolerances between specific Chinese Cymbidium cultivars.
- Implement gradual temperature adjustments when transitioning plants indoors or outdoors to minimize stress.
- Adapt watering and fertilization practices based on prevailing temperature conditions.
Water
Frequency
- Summer (active growth): 1-2 times/week, 3+ times/week during hot/dry spells.
- Fall: gradually reduce from summer frequency.
- Winter: 1-3 times/month. Increase if indoors and soil dries quickly.
Method
- During growth: water both soil and leaves (overhead) in warm weather.
- Cooler/wet weather: water soil directly.
- Signs of overwatering: mushy, limp plant. Repot with fast-draining mix.
- Signs of underwatering: shriveled, dry plant. Increase watering frequency.
- Potting mix: fast-draining, well-aerated.
- Water type: rainwater or distilled preferred, neutral pH. Let tap/rainwater sit for a few days before use.
- Misting: regularly, especially in dry weather.
Additional tips
- Overwatering is more common and harmful than underwatering.
- Watering frequency depends on pot size, weather, and growth stage.
- Indoor Chinese Cymbidium orchids may need more frequent watering than outdoor ones.
Fertilizer
Nutrient requirements
- Chinese Cymbidium orchids require essential nutrients for optimal growth and blooming, similar to other plants.
- Their overall fertilization needs are moderate, with annual feeding generally sufficient.
- While some Chinese Cymbidium orchids can survive without fertilization, regular feeding promotes vigorous growth and enhances flower production.
Optimal fertilization timing
- Late winter to early spring is the ideal fertilization period as the plant emerges from dormancy and enters active growth.
- Fall fertilization is acceptable if spring feeding was missed, but avoid summer and winter applications.
Fertilizer selection
- A balanced, general-purpose fertilizer with NPK ratios within recommended ranges is suitable.
- Higher phosphorus content fertilizers may be beneficial during bloom initiation for enhanced flower quality and longevity.
- Organic fertilizers like compost or manure can also be employed for sustainable nutrient supplementation.
Application techniques
- Granular or liquid fertilizers applied directly to the soil surrounding the plant base are recommended methods.
- Maintaining adequate soil moisture before, during, and after fertilization is crucial for optimal nutrient uptake and root health.
Overfertilization risks
- Fertilizer burn causing root damage and nutrient imbalances.
- Weakened plant susceptibility to disease and pests.
- Reduced flowering or complete flower suppression.
Additional tips
- Adjust watering frequency during winter to prevent root rot due to reduced water demand.
- Ensure the potting medium provides adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
- Supplementing with a humidifier can be beneficial in dry environments to maintain optimal air humidity.
Sunlight
Optimal conditions
Chinese Cymbidium orchids flourish in full sun, receiving ideally 3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. This promotes robust growth, vibrant foliage, and prolific blooming.
Cultivation djustments
- Adapting to changing light conditions: Gradually increase sun exposure for plants previously sheltered, allowing them to acclimate to fuller sun over several weeks.
- Indoor cultivation: For large or immobile plants, provide supplemental artificial light with a minimum of 8 hours daily. Consider professional-grade plant grow lights for optimal intensity.
- Outdoor placement: Position outdoors under filtered shade, such as near a tree or on an east-facing building, to avoid scorching while receiving sufficient morning sunlight.
Light sensitivity
- While tolerant of partial shade, insufficient light can lead to undesirable consequences. Lanky growth, sparse foliage, and reduced or absent blooms may occur.
- Intense, direct afternoon sun, particularly during hot summers, can cause leaf yellowing, scorching, and even wilting. Morning sunlight is preferable, with afternoon shade essential for protection.
Identifying light imbalances
- Insufficient light:
- Tall, lanky growth with sparse foliage.
- Yellow or pale green leaves.
- Lack of blooms or reduced flowering.
- Excessive light:
- Yellow, dry, or burned leaves.
- Wilting or stunted growth.
- White streaks or spots on leaves.
Leaf color as a diagnostic tool
- Apple green leaves: Indicate ideal light conditions.
- Bright green leaves: Suggest insufficient light for optimal growth.
- Leaves with "purpling" edges: Indicate maximum tolerable sun exposure, nearing excess.
Pruning
Objective
Optimize plant health, stimulate blooming, and maintain desired size and form.
Pruning frequency
- Continuous throughout growing season, focusing on specific tasks:
- Deadheading: Regularly remove wilted flowers to promote further blooms.
- Leaf Removal: Promptly address yellow, brown, or diseased leaves for improved air circulation and disease prevention.
- Size Control: After blooming, selectively prune older leaves to achieve desired plant shape and prevent overcrowding.
Pruning techniques
- Deadheading: Utilize sterilized shears to cut flower stem close to the base at a 45-degree angle.
- General Care: Trim yellow/brown leaves and spent flower stalks using sanitized tools.
- Size Control: Begin with outermost leaves and progress inwards, avoiding removal of more than 30% of the total foliage at once.
Post-Pruning care
- Apply fertilizer before or after pruning to support plant recovery and stimulate new growth.
- Dispose of diseased plant parts separately from healthy ones to minimize disease spread.
- Light watering and diluted liquid plant food can further encourage healthy growth and potential reblooming.
Special considerations
- Blooming Phase: Minimize pruning during active flowering, focusing solely on removal of dead or diseased leaves.
- Post-Blooming: After flowers fade, remove spent blooms and older, yellowed leaves for optimal health and future blooming potential.
- Leaf Discoloration: A significant number of yellow leaves may indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiency, requiring adjustment in care practices.
4.2 Propagating and growing Chinese Cymbidium Orchids
Propagating flowers
There are three main ways to propagate Chinese Cymbidium orchids: by division, by stem cuttings, and by root cuttings. Choose the method that best suits the plant and preferences.
- Division (best after blooming):
- Gently dig up the plant, keeping the roots intact.
- Divide the plant into clumps with at least one pseudobulb and roots each.
- Use clean, disinfected tools to cut the roots into clusters.
- Plant each cluster in its own container with well-draining potting mix.
- Place the newly potted divisions in a cool location and water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Stem cuttings (before flowering):
- Choose a healthy, thick stem and remove the leaves.
- Cut the stem into 2-node segments.
- Insert the bottom end of each segment directly into the potting mix.
- Keep the potting mix moist but not wet.
- New roots and shoots should appear within 2-3 months.
- Transplant the rooted cuttings into individual pots for further growth.
- Root cuttings (during hot weather):
- If you see roots developing on your Cymbidium's stems during hot weather, you can cut them off and plant them.
- Follow the same planting and care instructions as for stem cuttings.
Planting flowers
- Chinese Cymbidium orchids prefer a rich, loose organic potting mix, ideally leafmold or a commercial orchid mix with fir bark, perlite, peat moss, etc.
- Repot and divide cymbidiums between late February and late June. Use a sterile knife to separate divisions with at least 3 bulbs each.
- Choose a container deep enough for long roots, but not oversized. Avoid overpotting.
- For Chinese Cymbidium orchids , use tree fern fiber if available, or fir bark as an alternative. Repot every 2 years in spring after flowering. When repotting, make sure that the roots stay intact or else you would not see them bloom for a year or two. Some growers even wait two to three years before attempting such a task.
- Water moderately after repotting, keeping the mix moist without saturating. Provide shade until new growth appears.
Harvesting flowers
To showcase the elegant blooms of your Chinese Cymbidium orchid in a vase, select stems with only 2-3 open flowers. Make a diagonal cut at the base of the stem and immediately place it in a clean vase. Your cut orchid will grace your space for up to 14 days, or even longer with the help of flower preservatives.
Transplanting flowers
- Timing: Late spring to early autumn (growing season)
- Location: Well-lit, well-drained, cool and moist (but not overwatered)
- Spacing: 1-2 feet apart (30-60 cm) for individual flourishing
- Transplanting Steps:
- Preparation: Gather & clean tools.
- Hole: Dig a deep hole twice the width of the root ball.
- Placement: Gently place plant at original depth.
- Backfilling: Fill hole, gently firming around the base.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
- Attention: Before transplanting, the roots of orchids should be disinfected. You can use carbendazim or potassium permanganate solution for disinfection.
4.3 Key points for planting in different seasons
Spring
- Divide large plants at the roots every few years.
- Sow seeds in a sunny location, cover with an inch of soil, and water thoroughly.
- Apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer when new growth emerges.
- Water the plant when the top layer of soil begins to dry.
- Ensure the plant receives plenty of sunlight.
Summer
- Keep the plant in a shaded area as their leaves do not thrive in bright sunshine.
- Increase watering frequency when rainfall is scarce and check the soil moisture level daily.
- Watch out for slugs and other garden pests, especially if there is mulch around the plant.
- Remove spent flowers and any plant debris from the area.
- Continue regular fertilization to support fall flowering.
Fall
- Continue watering and fertilizing as long as the plant grows.
- Once the plant enters a dormant stage, prune it down to the ground and reduce watering.
- Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer regularly until the plant goes dormant due to colder weather, then stop fertilization.
- Ensure the plant receives plenty of sun, placing it in locations with full or partial sunlight.
- After a hard frost, you sow seeds to propagate more plants.
Winter
- The plant goes dormant in cold weather and requires minimal care, but it’s best to provide cold protection.
- After cutting back the stems, cover the beds with tarp or mulch to protect against chill winter winds and frost.
- Water indoor or warmer-climate plants only when the soil becomes dry to the touch. Otherwise, leave the plant to itself during this season after providing some shelter from the cold.