Jan from Downunder

[Janp41]

Hi, I am new to this site and have grown Cymbidiums for quite a few years now. My problem is that I have about 4 well matured orchids that have never flowered even though they are with other orchids that are currently spiking. They are of good size and colour with plenty of light and some late morning sun. If anyone has any suggestions it would be appreciated.

[ryan_d_cruz]

I am assuming that the 4 non flowering orchids are also cymbidiums, you might want to increase the amount of light that you are exposing them to (assuming that you r fertilizing them regularly) using too much of nitrogen based fertilizer will also inhibit flowering in favour of vegetative growth, also check what species of cymbidiums they are, some species like C. aloifolium, C. bicolor, C. canaliculatum infact require an intermediate to warm climate. All the best.

[Ellen]

I have some large cymbidium plants that bloom reliably every winter. I keep them outside in full sun from March through November, or whenever the flower spikes look attractive enough to bring inside (or very cold weather is predicted). They can take cold down to upper 20's at night for short periods of time without a problem, and I think the cold (along with shorter day length) makes them want to bloom. Basically, put them outside for the summer, water them once every week or two if it doesn't rain, and forget about them. A word of caution: If your plants have been in a low-light environment, you might want to move them into full sun gradually or risk sunburned leaves. Good luck!