Cymbidium bicolor culture

[Rid]

I’ve found conflicting info about cymbidium bicolor in regards to temperatures. Does it need to stay warm all year, or does it need a period of cold weather in the fall?

Thanks
Ridley

[rbarata]

Orchidwiz says: "This species likes even year round conditions that are humid, warm and with regular fertilizer." "

Considering this, the answer would be no.

[Cym Ladye]

When dealing with species needs, it is always first, to learn where they come from and second, determine the weather in that country. That was what Baker did in his book, but you can research it on your own and it is really fun to do so.

[rbarata]

Originally Posted by Cym Ladye

When dealing with species needs, it is always first, to learn where they come from and second, determine the weather in that country. That was what Baker did in his book, but you can research it on your own and it is really fun to do so.

One thing I've found as an important "parameter" when determing species environmental needs is the altitude (always mentioned in Baker's texts).
The fact that an orchid comes from a tropical country doesn't tell much about the temperatures 'cause it depends on the altitude range of the habitat.

[Roberta]

I have one growing outside, that I have had for two full years (two winters, two summers) It seems to be growing well, has bloomed. It was a division from another orchid club member who also grew it outside in southern California, more inland so slightly cooler in winter, warmer in summer. It shows every sign of becoming a "beast". (I will probably try to find it a new home while I can still carry it) So, I can state from experience that it can tolerate night winter temperatures to near freezing (34 deg F, 1 deg C) It doesn't need cold to bloom, but it can certainly tolerate it.

[Rid]

Originally Posted by Roberta

I have one growing outside, that I have had for two full years (two winters, two summers) It seems to be growing well, has bloomed. It was a division from another orchid club member who also grew it outside in southern California, more inland so slightly cooler in winter, warmer in summer. It shows every sign of becoming a "beast". (I will probably try to find it a new home while I can still carry it) So, I can state from experience that it can tolerate night winter temperatures to near freezing (34 deg F, 1 deg C) It doesn't need cold to bloom, but it can certainly tolerate it.

Roberta, what media are you using for your cymbidium?
Ridley

[Roberta]

Originally Posted by Rid

Roberta, what media are you using for your cymbidium?
Ridley

Seedling bark, and perlite. Same as what I use for all my other Cyms. I do grow it in an area with a polycarbonate cover to protect from cold rain (same area as my Catt species) so it gets slightly more protection than the rest of the Cyms, but not much. So really, no special care.