Orchids

Cymbidium orchids are grown for their flamboyant and colourful flowers. The climate in most capital cities is suited to growing cymbidium orchids in a sheltered, shady area. This sets them apart from many of the more tender, tropical orchids such as slipper orchids (Paphiopedilum) and moth orchids (Phalaenopsis), which need warm or hot house conditions outside the tropics.

Details

Common name: Orchids

Botanic name: Cymbidium spp.

Other popular orchids:

• Paphiopedilum, slipper orchid-These orchids can be grown outside the tropics with some shelter. Slipper orchids, which get their name from the slipper-like shape of the flower, need humid conditions, with shade from direct sunlight and good air circulation. These orchids can be grown indoors in a conservatory or well-lit spot but are not recommended for beginners.
• Phalaenopsis, or moth orchid-This orchid, with its large cascade of moth-like flowers, is a tropical orchid. It will grow in the central to southern areas of Australia if given protection from cold. Again, not recommended for beginners.
• Cattleya orchid-An epiphytic orchid from tropical parts of Central and South America. Needs a warm sheltered position if grown outside the tropics or subtropics.
  Tip: Talk to experts at specialist orchid nurseries before purchasing the more exotic and delicate varieties of orchids mentioned above.

Climate (see climate map): Cymbidium orchids will grow in most mainland capital cities and coastal districts. They will not tolerate cold night temperatures. Cymbidiums are native to Asia and northern Australia.

Good points:

• Due to modern breeding cymbidiums now come in a variety of colours from the white and pink through to oranges, reds, yellows and greens.
• They will grow in a pot in cymbidium potting mix in a shaded area in the garden or a shadehouse. They do not require a great deal of work.
• The most commonly grown cymbidium orchids bud in winter and flower through August and September to produce stunning long-lasting flowers.
• Some orchids are capable of producing up to four flower spikes from each bulb and have erect, fleshy leaves.
• Once in flower the plants can be brought indoors into a bright room where the blooms can be enjoyed for many weeks.

Downsides:

• Snails love to eat the flowers and hide under the rim of the pots and come out at night. Use snail bait or check plants and pots thoroughly for snails.
• Viruses such as mosaic and ring spot will show up as black or brown spots or streaks on the leaves. If you suspect a virus, destroy or isolate the plant.

Uses:

• Potted around the house indoors or outdoors to provide stunning colour and style to the garden.
• Orchids will not grow in garden soil but can be made to look as if they are growing in the garden by planting them in orchid potting mix on top of the garden soil. Use at least 30cm (12") of orchid mix.
• Cymbidiums are also used as cut flowers and in corsages.

Likes:

• Grow in specialist cymbidium orchid potting mix with good drainage. The potting mix is made up of pine bark, peat, coarse sand and polystyrene. Do not grow these plants in soil in the ground.
• Water occasionally and fertilise with specialist orchid fertiliser (available from most nurseries) Different formulations are available to encourage flowering and growth. Consult the container for recommended rates of application.
• Keep in a shaded spot such as under deciduous trees, on a well lit veranda or in a shadehouse but make sure that plants receive enough light to flower. Lush green leaves and few flowers indicate that your cymbidiums are too shaded.
• Divide after flowering when the plant fills the pot and replant segments into new pots with orchid potting mix.

Growing outdoors: Although cymbidium orchids are usually grown in pots they can be grown as garden plants if planted into a mound of orchid mix. Give plants grown outdoors shade from hot sun particularly in summer but expose to more light in autumn and winter to encourage bud formation.

Getting started: Cymbidium orchids and specially formulated potting mixes are available from nurseries throughout Australia. Our segment was filmed at Swane's Nursery, 490 Galston Road, Dural NSW, 2158. Phone: (02) 9651 1322. Prices for cymbidium orchids range from $32 for a single spike up to $120 for several spikes. Other more exotic varieties are available from specialist orchid nurseries and are more expensive than the cymbidium orchids.

Copyright 2006 CTC Productions