Looking After the Cambria Orchid

Cambria orchids not exist naturally in the wild but are bred from a hybrid of other varieties, amongst them the Odontoglossum and the Oncidium breeds. Horticulturists have specifically developed this type, not just because they are so pleasing to behold with their vibrant, often speckled blossoms, but also because they are a home-friendly plant that will thrive indoors with very little intervention.

As with all orchids it is imperative to know specific details about the environmental preferences of cambria orchids so that you can try to replicate this in your home.

Orchids

1. Potting

Use a container with a generously-vented base and/or sides to allow maximum air exchange. The roots of this are very light-shy so keep them hidden in an opaque container rather than the see-through ones that are recommended for many other varieties. Earthenware pots are especially good as they are porous and soak up extra dampness.

Use a specialist orchid-medium to fill the container and support the bloom; one which is composed of fairly large, absorbent matter is most desirable. Cambria orchids and their roots do grow out of their containers every two years or so and re-potting will be required. Always upsize in small increments to avoid water-logging in the container.

2. Temperature

Ideal temperatures for cambria orchids are somewhere between 65 and 68 degrees. This is usually the heating range that most people prefer in their homes anyway so no specific measures need to be taken for this plant provided that it is placed in a well-used room and that there is not too much of a drop in overnight warmth.

3. Light

Like other members of its extended family, cambria orchids like a generous amount of illumination and, although it is somewhat less prone to scorching than some other types, you should take measures to protect it from intense, direct sunlight. It is particularly important to provide adequate shade during its active season (between March and September) as its leaves are more sensitive then.

4. Watering

As with all orchids, less watering is definitely better than more. Never assume that your plant needs water, regardless of how long its been since it was last hydrated. Always feel the dampness of the potting matter before you add any moisture.

During the period when the cambria orchid is in full bloom, you will notice the formation of a pseudobulb. This will increase in size as it retains water and nutrients. You should reduce your watering frequency even more at this stage to allow the pseudobulbs to develop and new growth to occur.

5. Humidity

Humidity requirements of this hybrid are greater than the amounts that are naturally present in homes so boost mistiness by placing bowls of water or damp pebbles close to the plant.

6. Fertilising

It is advisable to do this on a monthly basis. Specialist orchid feed is available from garden centres and various formulations can be administered depending on the plant's phase of growth.

Cambria orchids really don't demand much from their owners at all so just live your life and let them live theirs. You will find that you get many rewards for very little effort.

Looking After the Cambria Orchid

Carl Harrison is an orchid enthusiast. For more great tips and advice on cambria orchids, visit http://www.theorchidresource.com