1. Home
  2. Question and Answer
  3. Houseplants
  4. Garden Articles
  5. Most Popular Plants
  6. Plant Nutrition

Cymbidium - yellow bulbs & white leaves


Question
Jim, I am writing from Sydney Australia where the climate is similar to California.  I have several mature cym orchids which have not flowered for the last few years.  Recently the bulbs are yellowing and the leaves have gone white towards the tips.  The orchids get morning sun and more than adequate ventiliation.  It has not been overly humid this summer.  I can't find any help in my orchid books.  Is it possible that they are receiving too much sun?  Thanks, Karen

Answer
Hi Karen,

Or should I say G'day.  (grin)  

From your description of the condition of your cymbidiums, it does sound like they may be getting too much direct sunlight.  You can either move them towards a little more shade or under a tree to reduce the amount of sunlight.  

For most large cymbidiums, leaves should be a light to medium green color when exposed to proper sunlight levels.  For small or miniature cymbidiums such as the oriental or Chinese cymbidiums, leaves should be a medium to semi-dark green color.  

Most cymbidiums love sunlight but too much of a good thing is too much.  (grin)  

Sorry for being so tardy in responding to your question.  I had read it in the morning several days ago and meant to respond in the afternoon but completely forgot about it until notified by AllExperts.com that I had an unanswered question.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.  

Copyright © www.100flowers.win Botanic Garden All Rights Reserved