Getting large cymbidiums to flower in warmer climates - Orchid Board

SueK · #1 10-02-2008, 08:17 AM

I am unhappy.

I have a non flowering large cymbidium which I have had for about 4 years. I bought it when it was in flower and that was the last flower I saw on it. My miniature and intermediate cymbids flower here in Brisbane Australia, but not the large cymbid. In summer we have warm days and it can get up to 35 degrees Centrigrade, but I don't think the night temperature drops low enough to promote flowering. This could be my problem.

I have heard that putting ice or cold water on the plant at night, in the middle of summer may do the trick. Has anyone tried this and does it work? If so, how long should I keep doing this for and how much water or ice should I put on it, as too much water would obviously be a disaster? Or does anyone else have a trick up their sleeve?

Thanks
Sue

ronaldhanko · #2 10-02-2008, 10:49 AM

I've heard of putting a tray of loose ice cubes around the top of the plant and letting them melt every night would work, but never tried it myself. Can't hurt.

Weebl · #3 10-02-2008, 12:46 PM

I've heard of misters being run intermittently at night as well.

Des · #4 10-02-2008, 09:40 PM

Try standing the plant in a saucer of water and give it plenty of air movement . It could also help if you feed magnesium sulphate once a month .

orchids3 · #5 10-03-2008, 06:47 PM

I grow in Jacksonville Florida which has the same problem. Some large cymbidiums just do not bloom here or drop their buds when they do. Other large cymbidiums do bloom and I find that misting the plant with a light mist just before the direct sun hits the plant and just after the direct sun leaves the plant. Use a light mist with small water droplets to moisten the leaves but does not dampen the media every time. The saucer water Des suggests also helps.