Blackening Cymbidium Spikes: Normal Aging and Bakersfield Growing Tips

Spike Blackening Is Normal

A new cymbidium owner in Bakersfield, CA, noticed one spike turning black after flowers dropped, while two others are just starting to lose blooms. This is normal: spent spikes blacken quickly. Cut them off 1–2 inches above the base.

Cymbidium Culture for Hot Summers

• Light: Full sun to light shade. In Bakersfield, use 50% shade cloth 10 AM–3 PM in summer.
• Temperature range: 40–85°F (4–29°C), tolerates wider with care.
• Water: When mix is barely moist. In heat >70°F, water every 3 days; >90°F, every other day.
• Humidity: >40% with air movement.
• Fertilizer: Balanced orchid formula at ¼ strength every watering.
• Pro tip: Set pots on 1-inch-deep plastic saucers to hold reserve water.

Where to Buy Quality Cymbidiums in California

• Santa Barbara Orchid Show (March 20–22): major vendors and open nurseries.
• Hatfield Orchids (Oxnard) – top hybrids.
• Santa Barbara Orchid Estates, Cal-Orchid (Santa Barbara), Gallup & Stribling (Carpinteria).
• Casa de las Orquideas (San Diego) – attends SB show.

The expert attends the SB show annually and welcomes a meet-up.