How do orchids in the north get enough vernalization without being damaged by cold? Real experience shared

Both Cymbidium goeringii and Cymbidium faberi need vernalization to produce good flowers. The Jiangnan region is an orchid-producing area, so of course there is no need to say more about that, but what about orchid growers in the north? Today a friend from Northeast China discussed with me the matter of how orchids undergo vernalization in the north.

Haoshe Nongfu has never been to the north himself, but I have many orchid friends in Northeast China, and only after asking some experienced Northeast orchid growers about this question did I dare to answer.

Both Cymbidium goeringii and Cymbidium faberi need vernalization. Without vernalization, the flowers that open are not proper, or the buds simply abort and cannot open. The questioner's idea of putting them on the balcony at night and indoors during the day is actually not very good. Orchids managed this way cannot receive sunlight, which is not good for growth and flowering.

Cymbidium goeringii outdoors in winter

Several orchid friends in Northeast China specially set aside an area for growing orchids, with a glass sliding door between the orchid area and the indoor heating. The orchid-growing area can get sunlight. They install a thermometer, keep the daytime temperature at around 15°C, and at night adjust it to 2-4°C by changing how far the sliding door is opened. In this way, the orchids can get sunlight, a temperature difference is created, and vernalization is also carried out.

Cymbidium faberi flower spikes in spring

Of course, orchids also have high ventilation requirements. When the temperature in the orchid-growing area is too high, they open the outer window a little for air, which both ventilates and lowers the temperature. It is really hard on orchid friends in Northeast China. As Haoshe Nongfu in the south, I truly never imagined before that growing a pot of orchids would require so much trouble.

Every orchid grower's home environment is different, so you can design things according to your own space and try to find a place suitable for orchid growth. I believe that with your efforts, the fragrance of orchids can also be smelled in the north.

Cymbidium faberi blooming in early April

Orchid friends can refer to this for ideas. If you have any other questions, welcome to leave a message in the comments section.