Best Potting Mix for Cymbidium Orchids: Bark and Perlite Recipe

Choosing the Right Cymbidium Potting Mix

There is no single "perfect" mix for Cymbidium orchids. The ideal blend depends on your local climate and watering habits. In hot, dry, sunny areas, you need a mix that retains moisture. In cool, shady, humid conditions, a faster-draining mix is better.

Recommended Mix: Bark and Perlite

A reliable Cymbidium mix uses small bark and large perlite. Here's the recipe:

• 5 parts small bark
• 1 part large perlite (size 3)

Preparing the Mix

1. Soak the bark for 24 hours in a large tub with enough water to keep it floating.
2. Scoop out the floating bark with a plastic colander; discard any bark that sinks (it's already decaying and will cause root problems).
3. Drain the bark in a plastic garbage can with holes drilled in the bottom.
4. The next day (or whenever convenient), combine 5 parts soaked bark with 1 part large perlite in a large tub and mix thoroughly.
5. Your mix is now ready for repotting.

Tip: If large perlite is unavailable, small horticultural perlite from garden centers works in a pinch.