Question
QUESTION: I have 3 large pots that have orchid bulbs in them. They use to belong to my Mother-In-Law father and now they belong to my husband and me. I don't have any idea how to take care of them but would love to learn. They are outside and we live in northern California. there is like 6 bulb or more in each pot. they do have some green shoots but that is all I see. Can you please tell he how to care for these?
Thanks

ANSWER: Joy, I would have to guess as to the type of orchid you have. I know that cymbidium orchids grow well in California and many there grow them. I am concerned about the state of the potting mix and pots.  The pots may be fine if the orchids have been successfully grown in these pots.  Orchids need a well drained pot, but also should be repotted every couple of years in orchid potting mix.  This is because old potting mix tends to hold water too long and can lead to root rot.  Usually repotting should occur just as new growth starts, so you may be at just the right time for repotting.  There are a great many commercial orchid growers in California that would appreciate the opportunity to help in the repotting.  if you can let me know what part of California you are living in, I can suggest some growers of cymbidiums that would welcome the opportunity to help and may provide some valuable tips.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I live in Union City California. I have seen the orchids bloom acouple of years ago. I do not know if she has repotted them. Any help would be great

Answer
I have a couple of suggestions:  attend a meeting of the San Francisco Orchid Society and speak with one of the officers or members about the help you need.  They meet at the San Francisco County Fair Building (Hall of Flowers)adjacent to the San Francisco Botanical Garden at Strybing Arboretum (at 9th Ave and Lincoln Way, San Francisco).  They meet the first Tuesday, monthly at 7:30 PM. You also could call their president Jean Lee (415)665-6079 or E-mail her at [email protected]. The orchid society has a large membership from all over the Bay area-- who knows there might even be a member from Union City. Their website is [email protected]..  That orchid society is a member of the American Orchid Society and a nonprofit educational organization. Someone knowledgeable needs to see you plant to determine if it is or not a cymbidium so it would be best to take one of your plants along.