Untitled Document

Growing instructions

Cymbidiums are amongst the hardiest of orchids with the species originating from the Himalayas through South East Asia to Australia. Our modern cymbidiums are hybrids which can be expected to bloom year in year out under average backyard conditions given basic pot plant culture.

Light: While cymbidiums will tolerate full sun for all but the hottest of summer days in temperate Australia, filtered light gives the best results. Shadecloth (50%), pergolas, lightly foliaged trees (eucalypts or silver birch) have proven satisfactory. Too much shade will inhibit flowering.

Water: Evenly moist is the target in the same way that ferns are grown. While cymbidiums will tolerate extended periods of drought, drying out will inhibit growth. Conversely too much water will result in ‘wet feet’ and subsequent loss of roots.

Feriliser: Virtually any fertiliser can be used at the lower end of the manufacturer’s recommendation. Both chemical and inorganic fertilisers have proven to be acceptable. Frequent applications of fertiliser give the best results. This can be simply achieved by using slow release fertiliser (say 6-9 month) twice yearly. A 175mm pot would require about 3 heaped teaspoons.

Potting mix: Soil should not be used. The components of the potting mix should be long lasting with good moisture holding capacity and provide excellent drainage. We use the following ingredients by volume: 70% composted 10 mm pinebark, 20% polystyrene granules, 10% 6mm crushed marble or dolomite gravel.

Pests & diseases: Caterpillars, slugs and snails will attack the flowers while scale and red spider can reduce vigour. Root and bulb rots will cause the death of a plant and are usually the result of over watering or a potting mix which has broken down. Normal gardening techniques including the use of insecticides will control any problems

Growing instructions
Cymbidiums are amongst the hardiest of orchids with the species originating from the Himalayas through South East Asia to Australia. Our modern cymbidiums are hybrids which can be expected to bloom year in year out under average backyard conditions given basic pot plant culture. Light: While cymbidiums will tolerate full sun for all but the hottest of summer days in temperate Australia, filtered light gives the best results. Shadecloth (50%), pergolas, lightly foliaged trees (eucalypts or silver birch) have proven satisfactory. Too much shade will inhibit flowering. Water: Evenly moist is the target in the same way that ferns are grown. While cymbidiums will tolerate extended periods of drought, drying out will inhibit growth. Conversely too much water will result in ‘wet feet’ and subsequent loss of roots. Feriliser: Virtually any fertiliser can be used at the lower end of the manufacturer’s recommendation. Both chemical and inorganic fertilisers have proven to be acceptable. Frequent applications of fertiliser give the best results. This can be simply achieved by using slow release fertiliser (say 6-9 month) twice yearly. A 175mm pot would require about 3 heaped teaspoons. Potting mix: Soil should not be used. The components of the potting mix should be long lasting with good moisture holding capacity and provide excellent drainage. We use the following ingredients by volume: 70% composted 10 mm pinebark, 20% polystyrene granules, 10% 6mm crushed marble or dolomite gravel. Pests & diseases: Caterpillars, slugs and snails will attack the flowers while scale and red spider can reduce vigour. Root and bulb rots will cause the death of a plant and are usually the result of over watering or a potting mix which has broken down. Normal gardening techniques including the use of insecticides will control any problems