Orchids Vs. Cymbidium Orchids

Cymbidium Cultivation

• Cymbidium orchids are suited to outdoor growing because they can withstand temperatures as cool as 28 degrees Fahrenheit, though only for short periods of time. Cymbidiums bloom from February to May, and they flower before many other spring plants. Move cymbidiums indoors when frost occurs, as they are not likely to survive. The plant's soil should be slightly moist at all times but not water-logged. Fertilize the flowers every month from August to December with a balanced, 20-20-20 fertilizer. Plant cymbidium orchids in a site where they will receive strong, bright light through most of the day.

Cool vs. Warm Orchids

• Cymbidium orchids are cool weather orchids, thriving best in temperatures between 55 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Other cool-weather orchids include Miltonias and Odontoglossum. Warm weather orchids grow best in temperatures ranging from 65 to 80 F. Phalaenopsis and Doritis orchids are classified as warm weather orchids. Paphiopedilum and Dendrobium orchids have species that thrive in both cool and warm weather environments. Unless you plant to grow your orchids in a very controlled, indoor environment, you will have to choose a variety that's suited to your region's temperature conditions.

Easy-to-Grow Orchids

• Some types of orchids are thought to be easier to grow than others, because they require less daily maintenance and care. Cymbidium orchids are not among those that are considered to be easy for casual, home gardeners. Dendrobium orchids, which produce white and purple flowers in fall and winter, have cultivars that may be grown in a wide range of temperature conditions. Epidendrum orchids may be grown outdoors and flower through much of the year, making them very practical garden plants. Cattleya orchids are very common in casual gardens because they are among the easiest to grow. Cattleyas produce vibrant blossoms that grow singly or in clusters, depending on cultivar.

Growing Orchids

• Orchids, whether they are cymbidiums or another variety, cannot be planted in regular potting soil. You must provide the flowers with a coarse, light potting mix that drains well, such as moss or bark chips. All orchids are sensitive to lighting conditions. Pay attention to the flowering activity of your orchids to determine if they are receiving too much or too little light. Foliage may begin to yellow or look bleached, but flowers will still bloom when orchids are getting too much light. If the flowers are not receiving enough light, you will notice a lack of flowering activity and deeply-colored green foliage. Orchids also need humidity to grow. Place a shallow tray filled with rocks and water near orchids to provide them with the necessary moisture, if their environment does not provide it naturally.