Cymbidium grandiflorum, commonly known as Hutoulan and Huangliaolan, is a remarkable tropical orchid renowned for its diverse varieties, large blossoms, and extended blooming period. It typically flowers from November to May of the following year. Despite its beauty, many people find it expensive and difficult to care for, often giving up after it finishes blooming. However, with proper knowledge of its needs, Cymbidium can be easily cultivated and will thrive, producing beautiful flowers year after year.
First, temperature plays a crucial role in the growth of Cymbidium. This orchid thrives in a temperature range of 10-35°C, with ideal daytime temperatures between 20-30°C and nighttime temperatures between 8-20°C. During hot seasons, maintaining a humidity level of around 85% helps with cooling. Most varieties require a day-to-night temperature difference of 10-15°C, with a maximum daily temperature not exceeding 28°C. Flower bud differentiation usually takes about 50 days, and the flowering process requires a cooler environment. Orchids can bloom for over three months at room temperatures around 15°C, but leaving them open for too long can drain the plant's energy, affecting future growth and flowering. Therefore, it’s advisable to cut the flower stems when the first 1-2 flowers appear, allowing the plant to recover and prepare for next season’s blooms.
Second, humidity and watering are essential. Cymbidium prefers high air humidity, ideally between 80-90%. To increase humidity, you can mist the air, place water basins, or use a humidifier. However, it is semi-aerobic, so the growing medium should not be waterlogged, as this can cause root suffocation. Watering should be done when the soil is dry, ensuring thorough watering each time. In spring, autumn, and winter, watering every 3-4 days is sufficient, while in summer, misting the leaves twice a day helps maintain humidity and prevents yellowing. Good ventilation is also important to prevent disease. Cymbidium prefers slightly acidic water, such as rainwater or river water. If using tap water, let it sit for a while before use.
Third, lighting is vital for healthy growth. The ideal light intensity is around 15,000-17,000 lux, which is about half of natural sunlight. Sufficient light promotes strong growth, thick leaves, full pseudobulbs, and vibrant flowers. Insufficient light leads to weak growth, thin leaves, and fewer blooms. During hot weather, provide partial shade (50-70%) to protect the leaves from sunburn. In winter and early spring, full sunlight is beneficial. In North China, Cymbidium can be placed outside on a balcony from late April to early May, provided it receives 50% shade and good airflow.
Fourth, fertilization is key to promoting growth and flowering. Cymbidium requires more nutrients during spring and summer to support pseudobulb development and flower bud formation. Apply diluted liquid fertilizer (1:1000) once a week, with an NPK ratio of 1:2:2. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers before flowering to encourage the shift from vegetative to reproductive growth. In fall, use high-potassium fertilizers every two weeks, and stop fertilizing in winter.
Fifth, repotting and division are necessary after flowering. Repotting should be done between March and May, using a well-draining mix rich in organic matter and with a pH of around 5.5. Soak bark or volcanic ash in water for 24 hours before use. When repotting, remove old roots, trim damaged parts, and ensure only the pseudobulbs are exposed. Sterilize the roots in a potassium permanganate solution, then wrap them in moss and place in a new pot. Keep the plant in a shaded area at around 20°C for two weeks without watering. This encourages new root growth and prevents rot.
Sixth, bringing the plants indoors is important when temperatures drop below 10°C, typically around National Day. Before moving them inside, clean the pots and disinfect the plants with insecticides and fungicides. Place them near a sunny window, and if they were grown under foil, secure the foil to a support structure.
Lastly, pest control is essential. Common issues include anthracnose, blight, and gray mold. Prevention involves improving air circulation and maintaining cleanliness. Regularly spray solutions like mancozeb, Prec, or carbendazim at appropriate dilutions once a week for three consecutive weeks.
By following these guidelines, Cymbidium grandiflorum can be successfully cultivated and enjoyed for many years. With proper care, it rewards growers with stunning blooms and a rewarding gardening experience.
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