Cymbidium
This introduces knowledge about the orchid plant Cymbidium, the cultivation methods of Cymbidium (grass orchid), and corrections are welcome if there are any mistakes!
Cymbidium is also known as grass orchid or mountain orchid, with fleshy roots and bulbous pseudobulbs, tufted leaves that are rigid and resilient, about 20-25 cm long, narrow and pointed, with rough edges. Around the time of the Spring Equinox, flower stems emerge from the base, with white membranous bracts on the stems, and a single flower at the top. There are many precious varieties with a strong fragrance. Cymbidium is a common wild species of terrestrial orchids, mostly found in temperate regions.
The cultivation of Cymbidium is best started in the late autumn. Before planting, it is advisable to use a new earthenware pot soaked in clean water for several hours, and if using a purple sand pot or plastic pot, drainage should be considered. The size of the pot should allow the roots to spread comfortably inside. The ideal growing medium is orchid soil, or a mixture of half decomposed leaf soil (or humus) and half sandy loam. Never use alkaline soil. Before potting Cymbidium, place tiles on the bottom drainage holes (preferably three) and then add gravel or cinders, which should occupy about 1/5 of the pot. Then, spread a layer of coarse sand and add the growing medium. It's best to place the orchid plant in the pot, straighten the roots, and let them naturally spread. When half of the soil is filled, gently lift the orchid and shake the pot to make the roots adhere closely to the soil, then continue filling the soil to the edge of the pot and press it down. Leave about 3 cm of the edge for fertilizing and watering. After potting, water thoroughly and place it in a shaded area. In early spring and winter, keep it indoors, and the rest of the time, place it under a shade shelter. In the summer, from 8 am to 6 pm, provide about 90% shade, while in spring and autumn, 70%-80% shade is sufficient.
Orchid leaves have a thick cuticle layer and sunken stomata, making them drought-resistant, so they require minimal water, maintaining the soil "70% dry and 30% wet" is ideal. Generally, water once every 2-3 days in spring, slightly drier after flowering, slightly moist after April; water once a day in summer; keep it moist in autumn; and water less in winter. During the bud formation period, keep the soil moist but not too wet. In dry and hot seasons, spray water around the pot in the evening to increase humidity.
Orchids dislike heavy fertilization. Do not fertilize newly planted orchids in the first year, and only start fertilizing after 1-2 years when new roots are growing vigorously. Generally, from April to the beginning of autumn, fertilize with well-rotted thin cake fertilizer water every 15-20 days. Stop fertilizing during the severe summer heat. Fertilize in the evening and avoid getting the liquid fertilizer on the leaves. After Cymbidium forms buds, choose one best-developed and most valuable flower bud to keep, and remove the rest to ensure large and beautiful flowers. Cut off the flower and scape together about 10-14 days after flowering to reduce nutrient consumption and benefit the next year's blooming.
The above introduces the complete cultivation method of Cymbidium (grass orchid) for everyone to learn and understand!