How long does it take for a Cymbidium goeringii bud to bloom? A detailed guide to care methods
This is a picture from last year's vernalization. This year it has already been divided into three pots and even produced fruit. If it snows this year, I will vernalize it again using this method.
Cymbidium goeringii generally forms flower buds in August and September of the first year and blooms in February and March of the second year. The main care points for Cymbidium goeringii at this stage are:
Temperature: For Cymbidium goeringii to bloom normally, it must go through vernalization, that is, it needs a low-temperature stage of about 60 days in winter, and the temperature during the vernalization stage should be controlled between 0-15°C. If the temperature is too high, the flower buds are prone to withering and drying up, and even if they bloom, the flower quality will be affected. If the temperature is below 0°C, it is prone to cold damage. Before blooming, the temperature should be raised gradually, not suddenly. The temperature during blooming should be controlled between 10-25°C, and it is best not to be too high or too low. If too high, the blooming period is shortened and the petals stretch out, affecting the flower quality; if too low, the fragrance is affected.
Water: If it is a famous petal-shaped flower variety, watering should be controlled: appropriately increase watering before blooming so the flower stalk grows taller and the flower "stands above the leaves"; when blooming begins, control watering and let it "bloom dry." If it is a multi-petal or unusual-petal flower, it should "bloom wet" to fully display the characteristics of the unusual flower.
Humidity: Increasing humidity during the blooming period is beneficial for improving flower quality. The relative humidity should be at least about 60%.
Cutting the flower: If it is a rare and precious variety, it should not be allowed to bloom for too long. Generally, after about 14 days of blooming, the flower stalk should be cut. Do not cut the flower stalk right against the soil surface; leave about half, and cut it off after it dries out, in order to avoid wound infection.
Post-bloom care: After blooming, it enters a short dormancy stage of about 20 days. During this period, watering should be reduced and fertilizing prohibited. After the dormancy period ends and growth resumes, strengthen water and fertilizer. Generally, one application of organic fertilizer, commonly known as "confinement fertilizer," is used to replenish the nutrients consumed by blooming and promote sprouting and growth.