What to Know About Introducing Edible Mushrooms and Winter Care Tips for Orchids

Strengthening orchid management in winter affects the lush growth and flowering amount of orchids the following year. To care for orchids well in winter, different management methods must be adopted according to the different varieties and characteristics of orchids.

Bringing them indoors for warmth: When winter arrives, orchids placed outdoors must be promptly moved indoors to a place where sunlight can reach them, with room temperature controlled at 5-15°C. Cymbidium kanran and Cymbidium sinense need a slightly higher room temperature for overwintering, but it should not exceed 15°C; the more cold-tolerant Cymbidium goeringii needs 3-4 weeks of low temperatures around 0°C to complete the vernalization stage, and the overwintering room temperature should be controlled at 3-8°C.

Controlling watering: When growing orchids, the principle of "not dry in summer and autumn, not wet in winter and spring" should be observed. In winter, orchids enter the dormant period, and usually watering once every 7-15 days is sufficient (except for Cymbidium goeringii, Cymbidium kanran, and Cymbidium sinense). Natural water or melted snow water is best; if using tap water, it should first be left to stand for 24 hours. Water from the edge of the pot so that the water gradually flows into the flower roots until moistened.

Controlling fertilizer and increasing light: During the dormant period in winter, orchids usually do not need fertilization, but Cymbidium goeringii can be sprayed on the leaves with a small amount of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer. After being moved indoors, giving more light is beneficial for robust growth and abundant flowering the following year, and it can also ensure safe overwintering. If light is insufficient, lighting can be used to supplement it.

Ventilation and air exchange: Orchids like warmth, but also need air circulation. You should choose around noon on clear and warm weather to open the windows for ventilation, or you can bring the orchid pots outdoors to a wind-sheltered, sunny place for air exchange.