new cymbidiums

[Stevie]

I first asked this question privately, but as advised, I'm sharing with everyone hoping for success with my new orchids.

My originally question: I live in Texas and bought 3 cymbidium orchids and would like advice on where to plant them. I live on 10 acres northwest of Houston - heavily wooded. I wasn't sure where to plant them, and thought I should put them in deep shade under old growth trees where the forest floor is full of leaves (this particular part of the land has been wild for over 5 years). There was some debris left behind by a former owner - a roll of weed blocking fabric. When I pulled it up, there was old rotting wood and leaves underneath. Should I plant them there? And should I use any soil at all or just take them out of the pot and anchor them? These are my first orchids, and I'm anxious to try something new. Thanks for any help!

Stevie

[Hummer344]

Welcome, Lots of friendly people here.

Unless you are going to prepare the ground with a deep layer of rock I don't think it would be advisable to plant the cyms or most other orchids. Also the heat and cold will have an adverse affect on them. Most are planted in a mix that drains very quickly. If in the ground your roots will rot and the plant will die. Leave the cyms in their pots. In TX, the heat might be a factor in caring for them. They won't like all those 90+ days. A little sun in the morning and bright light the rest of the day. Depending on how cold your winter is, they may have to come inside for a few months. I am sure that someone that lives in TX will be able to give you more info on how to grow your orchids

[solay]

Here in the San Francisco Bay area I've seen them planted directly in the ground but the leaves are not very attractive cause they get burned by the sun. They do however bloom and survive due to the mild temperatures. Texas may not be a little to hot and dry. The best way is to grow in pots as Hummer344 said. That way you can control the environment and deal with the pest like slugs/snails.

[Stevie]

Thanks so much for the warm welcome and helpful advise. I put two small ones in a rotting stump, and kept the other 3 potted. I'll just see how they do. If I happen to lose the ones outside, I won't feel so bad because I got them on sale anyway. Thanks again for the help and warm welcome!

Stevie

[patticake]

Welcome and good luck, Stevie! I'm not a Cym. grower. Too cold & dry up where I live, but, I wanted to welcome you anyway!