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CSUN-al Gardening Class Takes the Mystery Out of Growing Cymbidiums

(NORTHRIDGE, Calif., June 14, 2007) — Cymbidium orchids are the quintessential corsage flower. Millions are sold each year to mark a special occasion, from prom night to holidays. Fortunately for San Fernando Valley gardeners, cymbidiums are relatively easy to grow and can flourish on a protected patio.

Longtime Cal State Northridge Botanic Garden volunteer and Valley resident Nedra Bushby will discuss her growing methods for cymbidium orchids at the next CSUN-al Gardening Series class scheduled for 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 14.

Unlike many orchids that require high humidity and stable temperatures, cymbidiums prefer lower humidity and tolerate a wider range of temperatures. San Fernando Valley cymbidium growers commonly maintain their collections outdoors, in sheltered patio areas, all year round, said Brenda Kanno, manager of CSUN’s Botanic Garden, which hosts the CSUN-al Gardening Series.

"Nedra’s demonstration of orchid grooming and repotting will provide an opportunity for those attending the class to participate and gain hands-on experience in orchid cultivation," Kanno said.

While the class is free, registration is required due to limited seating. For more information or to register, call (818) 677-3496 or e-mail botanicgarden@csun.edu. Driving and parking instructions, as well as the classroom location, will be sent upon registration.

The Cal State Northridge Botanic Garden is operated by the university’s Department of Biology and serves as a field site for botany, entomology, photography, painting and other classes. In addition to outdoor landscapes and natural botanic environments, the garden also features greenhouses where rare and unusual plants are grown. The garden is open to the community.

For more information about the Botanic Garden, visit its Web site at www.csun.edu/botanicgarden/.