Cymbidium Orchid Care: 3 Keys - Potting Mix, Pots & Watering

Optimal Soil & Growing Media for Cymbidium Orchids
Cymbidium orchids thrive in loose, well-aerated, well-draining, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5. Commonly used media include:

• 

  Humus soil

• Fired clay soil

• Hyuma

• Akadama (highly recommended for its structure and drainage)

Tree bark

 

• Snake wood

• Peanut shells

• Coconut fiber

• Peat moss
  

• Plant gold stones (Zelolite)

Selecting single or blended media depends on availability, growing environment, management practices, budget, and pot type.

Essential Cymbidium Orchid Watering Practices
Cymbidiums tolerate some drought; avoid soggy media.

• Frequency: Water more during growth/flowering periods; less during dormancy. Increase in summer, decrease in winter. Water on sunny days, reduce on cloudy days, skip on rainy days. Water midday in winter/spring; mornings/evenings in summer/fall. Water when media is dry.

• Water Quality: Use clean, uncontaminated, slightly acidic water.

Cymbidium Orchid Fertilization Guide
Orchids require N-P-K primarily, followed by Ca-Mg-S, then micronutrients. Use:

• Organic fertilizers

• Inorganic fertilizers

• Compound fertilizers

• Slow-release fertilizers (e.g.,  Nutricote Orchid Fertilizer)

Key Fertilizing Principles:

• Apply diluted fertilizer frequently to prevent root burn ("薄肥勤施").

• Fertilize strong plants; avoid weak/sick ones.

• Ideal temperature: 15-30°C (59-86°F).

• Growth Stage Focus:

  • New Shoots: Nitrogen (N) dominant + Potassium (K).

  • Pseudobulb Maturation: Gradually increase Potassium (K).

  • Flower Bud Formation: Phosphorus (P) dominant to promote blooming.

• Timing & Method: Apply on sunny afternoons. Withhold water a few days prior to enhance nutrient uptake. Methods include root drenching, foliar spraying, and adding base fertilizer to the media.

Choosing the Right Pot
Orchid pots must offer excellent drainage and aeration. Common options include:

• Purple Sand Pots: Elegant, durable, good water retention & aeration, poor heat conduction. Widely used.

• Terracotta Pots: Highly common, excellent breathability, moisture absorption, and drainage. Ideal for traditional orchid mixes but less aesthetically pleasing.

• Plastic pots: Colorful and decorative, good water retention with moderate breathability. Popular choice.