Australia’s climate can be a bit of a mixed bag, but cymbidium orchids are tough, pretty plants that suit our temperamental weather.
They thrive in our temperate zones, handling cooler nights and warmer days. Plus, their stunning flowers come in every shade you can imagine, from soft pastels to vibrant yellows and deep reds. If you’ve ever wanted a plant that’s both hardy and gorgeous, cymbidiums are your go-to.
Getting Started: Choosing the Right Cymbidium Orchid
Before you start, you’ll need to pick the right plant. If you’re looking to buy cymbidium orchids online, you’ll find plenty of options. Our Collectors Online experts recommend looking for healthy plants with firm, green leaves and no signs of pests. If you’re after something unique, check out places that sell rare plants online—you might just stumble upon a showstopper.
Top tip: If you’re new to orchids, start with a mature plant. They’re easier to care for and will reward you with blooms faster than a baby plant.
Where to Put Your Cymbidium Orchid
Cymbidiums are pretty easy about where they live, but they do have a few preferences.
Light: Bright but Not Blazing
These orchids love bright, indirect light. Think dappled sunlight under a tree or a spot near a window with a sheer curtain. Too much direct sun can scorch their leaves, so keep them out of the harsh afternoon rays.
Temperature: Cool Nights Are Key
One of the reasons cymbidiums do so well in Australia is their love for cooler nights. They need a temperature drop (around 10-15°C) to trigger blooming. If you’re growing them indoors, try placing them near a window where they can feel the cooler evening air.
Watering: The Goldilocks Zone
Watering orchids can feel like a bit of a balancing act, but cymbidiums are pretty forgiving.
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In spring and summer: Keep the soil moist but not soggy—water once a week or when the top inch of the potting mix feels dry.
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In autumn and winter: Ease up on the watering. Let the mix dry out a bit more between waterings to mimic their natural dormant period.
Overwatering is the quickest way to kill an orchid, so when in doubt, wait a day or two before reaching for the watering can.
Feeding Your Cymbidium Orchid
Cymbidiums are hungry little plants, especially during their growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced orchid fertiliser every two weeks to keep them happy. In autumn and winter, you can cut back to once a month.
Top tip: If you’re into organic gardening, try a seaweed-based fertiliser. It’s gentle and packed with nutrients.
Repotting: When and How
Cymbidiums don’t need repotting often—usually every 2-3 years. But when they do, it’s important to get it right.
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Choose the right mix: Use a specialised orchid potting mix that’s chunky and well-draining.
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Pick the right pot: Go for a pot that’s just slightly larger than the current one. Cymbidiums like to be a bit snug.
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Trim the roots: Gently remove any dead or rotting roots before repotting.
If you’re not confident about repotting, there are plenty of tutorials online, or you can ask for advice from our gardening specialists when you buy orchids online.
Common Problems (and How to Fix Them)
Even the best plant parents run into issues now and then. Here’s how to tackle the most common cymbidium problems:
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Yellow leaves: Usually a sign of overwatering or too much direct sun. Adjust your watering schedule or move the plant to a shadier spot.
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No flowers: If your orchid isn’t blooming, it might not be getting enough light or the right temperature drop. Try moving it to a brighter spot or giving it cooler nights.
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Pests: Look for aphids, scales, and spider mites. A quick spray with insecticidal soap usually does the trick.
Where to Buy Cymbidium Orchids in Australia
If you’re ready to add a cymbidium orchid to your collection, there are plenty of options. You can find cymbidiums for sale from our nursery or check out local garden centres. For something extra special, look for sellers offering rare plants online.
And hey, if you’re into other unique plants, why not explore options like tillandsias? You can easily buy tillandsia in Australia to pair with your orchids for a stunning display.
Start Your Cymbidium Plant Family
Caring for cymbidium orchids doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right light, water, and a little TLC, these beauties will reward you with stunning blooms year after year. Whether you’re growing them indoors or out, they’ll become the star of your plant collection.
So, what are you waiting for? Go grab a cymbidium orchid and start your orchid-growing adventure today—Happy planting!
