cymbidiums growing in the ground ???

[jmateosky]

Hi,

Lots of info out there some good and some????? I have several cymbidiums and they are doing good. I really want to plant them into the ground. I have some neighbors who have done this and they look really nice. I am currently using 2 potting mixes: 1 coconut husks in small pieces. 2) horse manure, some rich dirt and rice husks ( to help with drainage). The plants in horse manure look a little happier.

I am looking for any and all input here on growing cymbs in the ground.

BTW I live at 5000 ft so temps 12-18c at night 20-30c in the day.

Jim in Costa Rica

[Ron]

Hi Jim.
No problem if a few simple steps are taken.
I have seen many Cymbidiums grown this way.
Keep the garden bed well drained, you could use any medium such as bark, course sand/gravel, compost, etc mixed into the soil.
Can be left for many years so as to create a feature effect with a large clump and massed flower display in late winter spring.
Cheerio
Ron

[solay]

Just be careful of the placement as they may burn in full afternoon sun. I've seen them grown in full sun and the leaves don't look very good. Although they'll still bloom. Please post some pics. when you've planted them. It'll be fun to see. I grow all mine in pots but I might consider trying in the ground one of these days.

[lmartiny]

Sorry, I'm not good on Celsius, but looks like you are chilly. ?
I have two cyms that are for warmer climes and one that is typically for cooler climes.
I repotted the warms. One went right into in the ground in a new "ground orchid" bed I made. It hasn't missed a beat and is doing really well. Other repot also happy and two new growths coming out. Cooler grower is sitting pot bound and waiting for a repot.
I say give it a shot and put one in the ground. They seem pretty hardy to me.

[klaraau01]

Cymbidiums are quite happy to grow in the ground - I used to have a few planted under the camelia trees to provide shade during summer. Your temp would be perfect for them growing this way!

[mgfree]

I've often thought about growing a cym on top of a vertical hollow log in the garden. You'd fill the hollow with whatever bark you like. This would suit pendulous flowering habits and give better drainage if it were an issue.