How to Care for Cymbidium
This article introduces the experience of caring for Cymbidium and its cultivation methods and maintenance knowledge in the field of green plant care. Let's find out what the editor has to share with us next.
Cymbidium is a plant belonging to the Orchidaceae family. In addition to being cultivated as a potted plant indoors for ornamental purposes, it also has high medicinal value. Its roots, stems, and leaves can all be used as medicine, with benefits such as treating neurasthenia, tuberculosis, coughing, and treating fractures and injuries. Let's introduce the cultivation methods of Cymbidium next.
1. Light
Cymbidium prefers semi-shade and cannot tolerate strong light. It is best to keep it in a gentle diffused light environment, especially in summer when strict shading is necessary. In spring and autumn, the potted plant can be moved outdoors during early morning and late afternoon to receive light. In winter, the duration of light can be increased.
2. Watering
Due to the unique structure of Cymbidium's leaf stomata, it does not lose water easily, making it drought-resistant. The watering frequency varies with the seasons. In spring and autumn, water about 3-4 times a week to keep the soil slightly moist. In summer, with high temperatures and fast evaporation, the watering frequency can be increased to once a day, keeping the soil moist, and also sprinkle water around the plant to increase humidity. In winter, as the plant enters a dormant state, the watering frequency should be reduced.
3. Potting Soil
It is best to choose a clay pot when selecting a pot. Before planting, soak the pot in clean water. The soil should be loose, fertile, well-draining, and well-ventilated, with a pH value between 5.5-6.5. For newly planted plants, use a granular, light, and clean soil. After the new pot plant has adapted to the environment, the humus content in the soil can be increased.
4. Temperature
Cymbidium prefers warmth and is cold-resistant but not heat-resistant. The optimal temperature range for Cymbidium growth is 15-25 degrees Celsius. Therefore, in summer, when temperatures are high, it is necessary to shade the plant and cool it down. In winter, when temperatures drop below freezing, the plant enters a dormant state but does not wither and die. In spring, the plant enters the flowering stage and the temperature should be kept above 10 degrees Celsius for normal blooming.
5. Fertilizing
When fertilizing, follow the principle of applying thin fertilizer frequently and avoid using thick or raw fertilizers. Generally, diluted liquid fertilizers are used, with a fertilizing period and frequency of once to twice a month during the late spring and early autumn. Stop fertilizing when temperatures are too high to avoid burning the roots. Additionally, newly planted Cymbidium should not be fertilized until the second year, and care should be taken not to splash fertilizer on the leaves.
6. Pruning
Pruning mainly includes repotting and thinning buds. Repotting refers to removing old, weak, and diseased seedlings for newly planted Cymbidium within the first 1-2 years to concentrate nutrients on healthy seedlings. Thinning buds mean removing excess flower buds after they have formed, leaving only the best-looking and most colorful one to ensure the quality and duration of the flowering period. During the flowering period of Cymbidium, the flowers should also be pruned. It is best not to wait until after the flowering period to prune but to cut the flowers and stems together within half a month after blooming to ensure the plant has more abundant nutrients the following year.
7. Diseases and Pests
Fungal diseases and anthracnose are the main diseases of Cymbidium, and scale insects are the main pests. If the plant is infected with fungal diseases or anthracnose, cut off the affected branches and leaves to prevent infection and then spray the plant with diluted solutions of pentachloronitrobenzene and zineb. If pest infestations occur, use a diluted solution of dimethoate emulsion to spray the pests.
The above is the content related to how to care for Cymbidium and its cultivation methods and maintenance knowledge, for reference by green plant enthusiasts. We hope it can solve your problems in green plant and flower management.