Cymbidium Care: Post-Bloom and Outdoor Growing in the UK

Managing a Cymbidium After Flowering

A Cymbidium ("King of Orchids") with 8 pseudobulbs finished blooming. Grown indoors in Surrey, UK, with damp soil.

Post-Bloom Care

Cut the spent spike off completely—Cymbidiums bloom once per spike. For best growth and future blooms, grow outdoors as much as possible. In Surrey, keep outside while temperatures stay above 45°F (7°C). Provide maximum sun with midday shade. Leaves should be light to medium green; dark green means insufficient light.

Seasonal Watering and Feeding

Winter: keep slightly dry. Spring to mid-fall: increase watering. Feed with half-strength balanced orchid fertilizer. If planting in ground, use a raised mound for drainage. Otherwise, keep in pot.