Cymbidium Backbulb Propagation: Potting and Fertilizing

Growing Cymbidium Backbulbs: Next Steps

Nancy has 4 backbulbs in individual 4" pots, new growth 6-8" tall, roots, forming bulb at base. One backbulb turning yellow/brown. Asks: transplant individually or combine? Remove backbulbs? Best medium (currently bark/perlite)?

Expert Response

Nancy, backbulbs support new growth—don't remove unless soft (rot spreading). Bark/perlite fine. Transplant individually to separate pots.

Follow-Up: Pot Size, Future Bulbs, Fertilizing, Soft Backbulb Removal

Nancy: already in separate 4" pots—put in something else now/when? Will they make more bulbs? Start fertilizing? Soft yellowish backbulb—cut at base?

Second Response

Nancy, Cymbidiums like tight pots—fine in 4". Usually each backbulb gives one new growth. Yes, start feeding. Soft backbulb: remove, seal cut with fungicidal powder (powdered sulfur). Cut piece ~4" above base; if rot in cross-section, remove more until green tissue. At base may see healthy growth eyes—if so, spare them, final cut at joint above eyes.