Cymbidium Orchid Care

Credit: iStock / heatherfaye

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Q: I have recently acquired a Cymbidium orchid and wonder about how, when or if it should be pruned at all.

Cymbidium orchid pruning is mainly removing old flowering stems to soil level. Give as much light without burning the leaves (yellowish-green colour is ideal). Keep medium moist during the summer months; less during the winter months. Fertilize every 10 days to two weeks with a high nitrogen fertilizer, e.g. 30-10-10 at 1/4 strength. Cool temperatures (10° to 13° C) during the night are required to set flower buds late summer/fall.