Cymbidium Orchid Store and Transport

Cymbidium Orchid Storage and Transportation

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Cymbidium orchids are delicate flowers that require special care during storage and transportation to maintain their quality and longevity. This article will provide you with key information on the ideal time to cut Cymbidium flower stems, how to prevent mechanical damage during transportation and storage, and the recommended flower food solutions for storing and transporting Cymbidium orchids.

Ideal Time to Cut Cymbidium Flower Stems

Cymbidium Orchid Store and Transport
Image Credit: Wikimedia
  • Cymbidium orchids should be harvested 3 to 4 days after opening to ensure optimal vase life.
  • Cutting the stems at the right time helps maximize the flowers’ freshness and longevity.

Preventing Mechanical Damage

Cymbidium Orchid Store and Transport

Cushioning and Protection

  • Use shredded paper or wax paper to cushion and protect the flowers from mechanical injury during transportation.
  • This helps prevent bruising, crushing, or other physical damage to the delicate blooms.

Stem Support

  • Support long Cymbidium stems in tall, slender vases to prevent water from not reaching the flowers, which can shorten vase life.
  • Proper stem support ensures the flowers receive the necessary hydration during storage and transport.

Recommended Flower Food Solutions

  • Use flower food solutions specifically formulated for orchids, such as those containing 1-MCP, to prevent ethylene damage and extend vase life.
  • Ethylene-blocking agents like 1-MCP help protect Cymbidium orchids from premature wilting and flower drop.

Storage Conditions

  • Store Cymbidium orchids at temperatures between 0°C to 12.5°C, depending on the cultivar, and maintain high humidity (75-85%).
  • Proper temperature and humidity levels are crucial for preserving the flowers’ freshness and quality.

Packing and Shipping

  1. Examine the plant for health before shipping, and water it if necessary.
  2. Use shredded wax paper, tissue, or cotton-like padding to prevent injury, and fill voids in the box with extra paper for cushioning and insulation.
  3. Include unpacking instructions and consider using non-toxic heat packs in cold weather to keep the orchids warm.

Troubleshooting

  • Watch for signs of ethylene damage, such as translucent or dried patches on petals and sepals, or darkening of the lip and column.
  • Check for mechanical damage due to improper packaging.

Contaminants and Chemicals to Avoid

  • Ethylene: Cymbidium orchids are sensitive to ethylene, which can cause premature wilting and flower drop. Use anti-ethylene products to protect the flowers.
  • Softened Water: Avoid using softened water, as it can affect the quality of the orchids. Instead, use water low in alkalinity, such as rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water.

Alternative Solutions

  • Humidity Trays: Use humidity trays to maintain high humidity levels, especially when storing orchids indoors.
  • Specialized Fertilizers: Use fertilizers specifically formulated for orchids, such as Green Jungle Orchid Food, to provide the necessary nutrients.

References

  1. FloraLife. (n.d.). Orchid (Cymbidium). Retrieved from https://floralife.com/flowers/orchid-cymbidium/
  2. Cargohandbook. (n.d.). Orchids. Retrieved from https://www.cargohandbook.com/Orchids
  3. OrchidWeb. (n.d.). Cymbidium Orchid Care. Retrieved from https://www.orchidweb.com/cymbidium-orchid-care
  4. OrchidWeb. (n.d.). How We Ship Plants. Retrieved from https://www.orchidweb.com/how-we-ship-plants
  5. Reddit. (2015). How to transport orchids? Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/orchids/comments/2vixlk/how_to_transport_orchids/

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