Cymbidiums are popular and one of the most expensive cut flowers Europe. This is mainly because of its excellent flower and long lasting quality.

The quality of Cymbidium flowers grown in Kenya by SmallHolder Farmers is good and is of exportable quality. The current production is meeting the domestic
demand and the domestic demand is increasing.

Environmental factors that are important for growing of Cymbidiums

All the thin leaved orchids such as Cymbidium, Paphiopedilum etc. are originated from higher altitudes, hence grown under the climatic condition where winter night temperature is between 7-14°C (preferably not below than 12°C) and day time temperature is between 20-22°C (preferably not to exceed 24-25°C)

  • Temperature: Cymbidium hybrids prefers cool climate. The ideal temperature for most of the hybrid Cymbidium is 20°C and lower than this temperature is better for growth of the plants than higher than the ideal temperature
  • Relative humidity: Cymbidium orchids relative humidity is very important for photosynthesis activity. Higher humidity of 70% or more during the day time is essential
    for commercial farming of Cymbidium.
  • Light intensity: Cymbidium naturally grows on a host tree in a forest and therefore it doesn’t get full sunlight. In greenhouses condition, 50% shade net is used to reduce the light intensity in summer and has been found to be effective in balancing the growth of the plants. In cooler location (less than 20°C), lower than 50% shade can be used for good growth of the Cymbidium.

Harvesting and grading

The harvesting of Cymbidium for cut flower market is done in the morning. After cutting the flower stem, it is immediately put in a clean bucket filled with water. Utmost care should be taken not to disturb the pollinia. The harvested flowers are brought to the grading and packaging room. Cut stems of Cymbidium are graded based on types
of Cymbidium such as Standard or Intermediate and number of florets. Length of the cut stems and number of florets and size of florets are important criteria.

Postharvest care and storage

Cut stems of Cymbidium are treated with 0.2mM Silver thiosulphate (STS) for 30 minutes, the vase life of the cut Cymbidium significantly increase. Silver treatment also negate the response of the flower to pollinia disturbance thereby reducing postharvest loss.


Cymbidium Orchids Available

Buy wholesale fresh Cymbidium orchids. Take a look at our assortment of Cymbidium orchids. Here you will find assortment of Orchids varieties available.

Leave a Reply