Cymbidium, commonly known as the orchid, is a perennial herb belonging to the genus Cymbidium. It's a graceful and luxurious flowering plant that has captured the hearts of flower lovers worldwide. Despite its popularity in the international market, many growers find it challenging to keep these orchids alive beyond one blooming season, often calling them "one-time flowers." However, with proper care and understanding of their needs, Cymbidium can thrive and bloom again year after year.
First, proper post-flowering care is essential. After the Spring Festival, when you purchase a large-flowered Cymbidium, it typically blooms for 1–3 months. Once the flowers have faded, remove the spent blossoms and the calyx promptly to encourage healthy growth.
Second, maintaining an appropriate temperature is crucial. Cymbidium prefers warm conditions, and during winter, the room temperature should not drop below 8°C. After heating stops in early spring, if not protected, plants may suffer from cold damage. A simple way to keep them warm is to cover the entire pot with plastic film and place it in a sunny area. If temperatures remain low, use air conditioning to maintain a minimum of 10°C.
Third, choose the right potting medium. Do not rush to repot immediately after flowering. Wait until the Qingming period, when temperatures stabilize, and use clay pots with good drainage. Add a layer of broken stones at the bottom, then mix pine bark, charcoal, coarse river sand, and expanded clay in a 1:1:3:1 ratio. Soak the mixture before use, and once placed in the pot, only a small amount of water is needed to settle the soil.
Fourth, effective cultivation techniques are key:
1. **Watering**: Most Cymbidium species require high humidity. In winter and early spring, water every 1–3 days. During summer and autumn, mist the plants 1–2 times daily to maintain moisture.
2. **Fertilizing**: During the growing season, apply diluted liquid fertilizer (0.02% concentration) 1–2 times. You can also use organic fertilizer pellets mixed with bone meal or superphosphate on the soil surface for slow release. Apply a 0.1–0.2% compound fertilizer solution regularly.
3. **Light**: Cymbidium thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near a south-facing window but avoid direct sunlight in summer. Use a 50% shade net during hot months, and remove it in winter for more light. During flowering, reduce light intensity to maintain beautiful blooms.
4. **Temperature**: The ideal temperature range is 15–25°C. In summer, it can tolerate up to 35°C, but in autumn, keep it below 25°C to prevent bud drop.
5. **Pest Control**: Common issues include white mold, leaf spot, scale insects, and aphids. Treat white mold with copper oxychloride (12%) diluted 600–800 times. For leaf spot and black rot, use thiophanate-methyl or carbendazim. Spray insecticides like dimethoate for scale and a mild detergent solution for aphids. For locusts, use a decoction of Pulsatilla to deter them.
With consistent care and attention, your Cymbidium will reward you with vibrant blooms and long-term beauty.
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