Hello..or should I say...Heeeellllllppppp

[balistick]

I just purchased a Cymbidium Orchid for my wife, got a set up with a stand and everything, have done everything to what the instructions and am trying to keep this alive long enough until she can take over after she has our first child. Living in the Midwest and currently have it in a corner window that that faces North and East. Have started to notice that the leaves are getting darker and starting to droop....any suggestions that would help out would be greatly appreciated. We typically try to keep the temp in the house around 65-70 degrees year around.

Ed

[smartie2000]

Welcome
What type of cymbidium is it? Is it a chinese type or a standard cymbidium? Do you have a photo or label?
I would suggest a west or south window for it because they can handle a lot of light indoors.
Chinese cymbidiums and their hybrids don't require as much light and can grow in near phalaenopsis conditions, which is easier to achieve indoors. They are smaller sized too.
Standard cymbidiums need higher light and need a temperature drop to initate spikes each year. And they are huge plants. They can also be placed outside when weather permits. I placed mine outside, so that it can grow better and hopefully spike. They will enjoy those cool nights outside compared to warm nights indoors.

[Djarum Black]

Hi Balistick!

Welcome to the OB! Glad you could join us!
I am afraid I can't be much help in the Cym department ( I only have one of those). I have mine outside planted in the ground. It loves it
I am sure however a good Cym expert will chime in to help you out!

Welcome again!

[Dorothy]

and don't forget those

I can't help you out with cymbs as they are one species I have yet to tangle with.

I am sure there are many here that can help you.
Try using the search .. you may be able to find some answers there!

Come join us in chat about 8pm Eastern. Many people there are fluent in orchids! ..

and then there's me.

[Ross]

First of all, welcome to the board.

Second, even tho I have never grown a Cym in my life, I have frequented with those that do (and did). They love coolish tyemps so that is good. They also like high amounts of light (not, necessarily sunlight, tho) so if you can move it to a window with a bit more light like east, that might help. Drooping leaves often mean low humidity. I struggle with a couple plants (like Miltonia) that like high humidity, but not in a terrarium. So keep trying - I'm sure you'll get it right!

[justatypn]

Aboard, its great that you have found us where our members rank from newbies to veterans. If you have one orchid it's only the beginning to a well rounded satisfying hobby. I have a cym, it's not the most easiest to acclimate in my growing area but still holding on...here is a tidbit of info I have but not my material....

Cymbidiums

Dear Orchid Friends:
Cymbidiums are showy orchids producing striking inflorescences. The flowers are widely used by Florists, both in floral arrangements and corsages.
Cymbidiums hail from China, Japan, Indonesia, India and tropical Malaysia. There are nearly 50 Cymbidium species; however, most of the Cymbidiums grown today are hybrids. There are two major groups of Cymbidiums; those from warm temperature zones and those from temperate - cool zones. Most of the Cymbidiums available are generally the cooler varieties, preferring day temperatures of 70-80 F with cool nights of 50-60F. Cymbidiums are popular in the North and West Coast USA. There are a variety of miniature Cymbidiums as well and these are more heat tolerant.

These orchids do require sunlight - the trick is providing enough light to stimulate growth, but not scorch them. Light is one of the most critical factors in growing cymbidiums. Inadequate light is the number #1 reason for lack of flowers. Provide light without burning leaves. In areas like California, they may tolerate more sun light. Foliage should be a jade green color.
Cymbidiums are medium to large plants with long, pointed grassy leaves. These plants contain pseudobulbs and can be separated into smaller divisions. Be forewarned, dividing these orchids is quite a feat in itself! Cymbidiums do not like to be disturbed or repotted too often - every two years or so. Thus, provide a pot large enough to accommodate a two year growth. During divisions of pseudobulbs, the brown pseudobulbs quite often produce new growth. These pseudobulbs are considered "dormant" and with proper potting and care, the "eyes" will start new growths. Use a medium that is not too dense, but one that is humus rich.

Cymbidium flowers are magnificent: long, upright inflorescences with 20-30 flowers on the stem. Waxy, deliciously fragrant and long lasting are reason these orchids are popular with florists and hobbyist alike. Individual flowers have oval shaped, pointed sepals. The lip is fleshy and the lip bends over in a tongue-like fashion. Cymbidiums are known for a wonderful color spectrum; creams, pinks, yellow, green, coral with an infinite array of patterns and markings. The 'standard' flowers can grow up to 3-5 inches across. These orchids start spiking late summer and autumn and generally bloom winter to late spring. The plant can produce a multitude of flower spikes. What a glorious sight! Most professionals recommend a balanced fertilizer. Water consistently to maintain moisture.
The 'standard' Cymbidium does not fare well in South Florida. So… buy one, enjoy it for a time and give it away to someone in a cooler climate or begin looking at warmer varieties. Cymbidiums are beautiful, fragrant orchids. You will enjoy these long lasting flowers.

[cb977]

Hi Ed
Nice to have you with us

In general, Cymbidiums like as much light as possible without burning.

[Tindomul]

Welcome Ed to the oRchid Board. Glad you could join us.