compost as an additive to Cymbidium potting media?

[gngrhill]

[QUOTE=Cym Ladye;796819]

That said, the only reasons to put our orchids in pots is to keep them from falling over and to take them to orchid shows.

And for those of us who don't live in California so we can bring them inside in winter.

[oscar freak]

and that's been recently divided!moral of the story go and buy another cymbidium and try that method

[Fairorchids]

Cymbidiums need a light terrestial type mix. I grow them in plastic pots, and use:
2 parts chunky peat (coarse)
1 part each composted manure, bark & perlite

I considered compost from my towns composting program, but you never know what went into it (poison ivy anyone?), so I pass on that.

Fertilizer: We use Peters 20:20:20 every two weeks, and we also put a large handful of NutraCote into each pot.

[Cym Ladye]

Originally Posted by oscar freak

this is it

It appears your plant has either been growing in the house or in a very shaded location. The "wilting" leaves and dark color say it all. Cyms need 50/50 sun light as well as the natural breezes it would get outside.

You will have far better luck if you leave your Cym outside as l long as you can before hard frost in you area. Then bring it in under grow lights or in a bright window.

As far as compost, it all depends on what is in it. I add a 10-15% redwood compost to a predominately coco chip/Orchiata mix with added large perlite for my Cym. seedlings. It will hold water longer, however.

[oscar freak]

that not mine it belongs to my boss he is also an orchid enthusiast.the plant does look like it needs some more light but the way it is flowering it doesn't seem to be hindered by it

[Cym Ladye]

I realized it was not yours OF. Remember, however, Cyms bloom on two year old bulbs so if he has had it less than that it is blooming from growths made elsewhere. If it is blooming under his conditions, then keep doing what he is doing.

[oscar freak]

He has had it for years and that is only half the plant,its been recently divided.

[Cym Ladye]

I believe that if you are having the success you want with what you are doing, keep doing it.

[oscar freak]

The buds are all open now and is something to behold

[Pattywack]

Very beautiful blooms!