How to grow a beautiful boat orchid

Boat orchid (Cymbidium) is a rather undemanding plant so, if you love this plant, do not be afraid to get one. Flowers vary in colours and last long time, which make this plant a great gift. The plant looks very exotic and will brighten up any interior. Growing is somewhat specific, but not difficult. If you already have experience with orchid growing, it should not be a problem for you.

Watch out for the sun

A typical requirement for nearly all orchids is a bright light but no direct sunlight. A west or north facing windowsill is best. Orchids like it hot but not direct and dry heat from a radiator so, be careful. The soil should be a mixture of turf, sand and peat. If you can, buy a pre-mixed orchid soil.

Photo: Pixabay

Care

Regular watering is important, ideally once a week, but you also need to observe your plant and take an action if necessary. Soil should not be dry, but no standing water either. Best if you use rain water or boiled water. It should be at room temperature of course. You may also add fertilizer for orchids (liquid, foliar or in the form of sticks) during the growing period. Fertilize once every few weeks but follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.

Growing requirements

A temperature from 10 to 14 °C is necessary during winter and in summer it should not rise above 30 °C. Lower temperatures are also important as the plant need a lower temperature to get ready for flowering. If you follow the proper growing regime – i.e. correct watering and the right location, you should not have any problems.

Propagation

If you feel that your cymbidium is too big for its pot, you need to repot. If you want to propagate the plant, get a sterile knife and remove a rhizome. Each separated part – rhizome should have three bulbs. Put rhizomes in separate pots with moist orchid soil. Do not water for three weeks – just use a spray bottle to moisten the plant. Once roots start to form (which is usually after three weeks), you can water as usual.

Source: https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/cymbidium-orchid-grow-guide/

Preview photo: Pixabay