As a Cymbidium orchid enthusiast, I know how rewarding it is to see your plant bloom beautifully. But what happens after the flowers fade? Proper care is essential to ensure your Cymbidium orchid remains healthy and encourages reblooming. In this article, I’ll cover the key steps to take for your Cymbidium orchid after it finishes flowering.
1. Cutting Back the Flower Spike
After the flowers have faded, use sterilized scissors or pruners to cut the stems down to the base of the plant. This encourages the orchid to bloom again next year.
2. Light Exposure
Indoor Placement
Place the orchid near a southeast- or east-facing window to provide dappled sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the plant.
Outdoor Placement
If you have your Cymbidium orchid outdoors, ensure it is in a spot with filtered sunlight, such as under a pine tree or shrub, especially during early morning or afternoon.
3. Watering
Frequency
Water the orchid frequently during the growing season (spring, summer, and fall). Water two to three times a week in summer and once a week in winter.
Moisture Level
Keep the potting medium moist but not soaking wet. Water when the medium is just dry to the touch.
Water Quality
Use rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water to avoid mineral buildup. If using tap water, flush the potting medium with non-softened water once a month to rinse out salts.
4. Fertilization
Frequency
Fertilize every time you water during the growing season. Use a balanced orchid fertilizer or slow-release fertilizer at the recommended strength.
Type of Fertilizer
Use a fertilizer specifically formulated for orchids, such as Green Jungle Orchid Food, which provides the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
5. Repotting
Timing
Repot the orchid every two years, ideally in spring after it finishes blooming. This allows for the removal of dead roots and the provision of fresh potting medium.
Potting Medium
Use a light, porous medium such as New Zealand Sphagnum Moss or a bark-based orchid compost. Ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate two years of growth.
6. Pruning and Division
Dead Roots
Remove any dead or dying roots from the plant during repotting to prevent root rot.
Division
Divide the plant into sections with at least five healthy pseudobulbs each. This can be done during repotting to create new plants.
7. Pest Control
Spider Mites
Check for spider mites on the undersides of leaves and treat with insecticidal soap if necessary.
8. Temperature and Humidity
Temperature
Keep the orchid in an area with a temperature range of 10–24°C (50–75°F). Avoid temperatures above 28°C, which can cause the blooms to fade prematurely.
Humidity
Maintain a humidity level above 40%. Place the plant on a tray of pebbles and water to create a microclimate if necessary.
By following these steps, you can ensure your Cymbidium orchid remains healthy and encourages reblooming. Remember, providing the right light, water, and nutrients are key to keeping your Cymbidium thriving after its flowering cycle.
References:
– OrchidWeb. (n.d.). Cymbidium Orchid Care – OrchidWeb. Retrieved from https://www.orchidweb.com/cymbidium-orchid-care
– RHS. (n.d.). How to grow cymbidium orchids – RHS. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/cymbidium-orchids/how-to-grow-cymbidium-orchids
– YouTube. (2023). How to care for Cymbidium after bloom. #cymbidium – YouTube. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HB5qmzfsfvk
– The Spruce. (2023). How to Grow and Care for Cymbidium Orchid (Boat Orchid). Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/grow-cymbidium-orchids-1902836
– Stodels Garden Centre. (n.d.). Caring for the cymbidium orchid | Stodels Garden Centre. Retrieved from https://www.stodels.com/caring-for-cymbidium-orchid/