Cymbidium Care: Removing Dead Pseudobulbs & Repotting Timing

A Cymbidium with 7 large flower spikes just finished blooming. The owner asked about removing brown, dried pseudobulbs and what sealant to use on cuts.

Removing Dead Pseudobulbs

• Pull off collapsed, hollow pseudobulbs by hand if accessible.
• If buried in the center, easiest during division: split plant, remove dead material from edges of divisions.
• If cutting: use sterile tool, seal cuts with powdered sulfur (pharmacy), Rootone (garden center), or copper sulfate. Black pruning paint is not ideal.

Repotting Recommendation

Wait for new growth to emerge (typically spring), then repot in fresh orchid mix. Use a pot allowing 1+ inch clearance from outermost pseudobulbs to rim for new growth space. Division at this time is optional but rejuvenates large specimens.

Sealant Sources

• Powdered sulfur: ask pharmacist (small container lasts years).
• Rootone: garden centers (often Black Flag brand), used for cuttings but contains fungicide.
• Large box stores rarely carry these; try independent garden centers.