What to Do With Cymbidiums After They Bloom?

History

• Cymbidiums, among the oldest of the orchid species, were grown in China around the time of Confucius circa 500 BC. A great majority of orchids grow in or on trees, well above ground, but his type of orchid is unusual in that it grows on the ground in regular topsoil. The majority of people grow them as specimen plants in large pots. The wide, grassy leaves along with its robust blooms offer an eye-appealing display of blooms.

Before Bloom

• Nurturing a cymbidium through its growth cycle and all the way to bloom requires patience as well as knowledge of the plant's needs. A large plant, cymbidium needs a great deal of daytime light as well as evening temperatures that range between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. A plant of this species prefers a fine mixture of potting soil, specifically formulated for orchids, and plenty of room for root spread. As long as the correct soil is used and adequate light and temperatures are provided, you will be rewarded with superb flowers when the cymbidium blooms. The plant will remain healthy enough to commence another growth cycle after the blooming period passes.

After Bloom

• The after-bloom period is critical to the future health of the plant, and the potting media needs to be changed when it shows signs of decomposition. Remove the plant from the pot and shake all of the potting media from its roots; divide the plant if your wish. Re-plant the cymbidium in a fresh blend of fir bark, peat moss and perlite. Choose a plant pot that will accommodate the plant and provide room for root growth without cramping or crowding the pot. Fan out the plant's roots over a mound of the potting mix, making sure the roots are firmly covered in the planting medium.

Bloom Logistics

• After-bloom care for the cymbidium requires adequate water, food, humidity and temperature, which ensure a plentiful harvest of future blooms. Larger amounts of water are needed during the spring and summer months. During the winter months the humidity should be maintained at 40 to 60 percent. The plant will need air circulation and fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, such as 30-10-10. Apply the fertilizer bi-weekly from spring through the summer months and discontinue when the plant is ready to bloom.