Question
I have a large cymbidium for about 2 years.  It was in full bloom when I bought it but it has never rebloomed.  I keep it outside all summer and it looks very healthy.  How can I get it to bloom agaim?

Answer
Hello Ruth,

Growing the cymbidium outside in summer is good but you didn't mention where you live nor where outside.  Cymbidiums are fairly hardy orchids but have certain needs fulfilled in order to grow and bloom well.  Since I don't know where you live I'll give you some general guidelines about where and how to grow it.  

If at all possible, cymbidiums should be grown outside all year round or until temperatures begin to fall below 35 degrees F.  Depending upon where you live, it can be grown in full sun down to partial shade, how much sun to give it depends upon how hot it is where you live.  Below 80 F it can be grown in full sunlight but above that it should be under 50% shade.  Under ideal sunlight conditions the leaves should be a light to medium green color, dark green would indicate too much shade while yellow would indicate too much sun.  Cyms should be allowed to become barely moist between waterings.  Water more frequently during hot weather and less often when cool.  Humidity above 50%.  Feed it a good balance type orchid fertilizer or one that has the same or similar NPK numbers.  Air circulation is important so try to grow it where it will be exposed to some light breezes.  

You've had it for 2 years now and it may need repotting either this year or next.  Most cyms are potted in a material that will break down and begin to rot in 2 to 3 years, as it rots it will also cause the cym roots to rot.  To determine if the potting mix it currently is in is breaking down, smell the mix after you've watered it and if there is a sour odor present it is breaking down and needs replacement.  

Wish I could have been more helpful but without more specific information I can only be general in my answer.  Good luck and good growing.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.