The effect of different substrata (agar, pearl barley, oat flakes and perlite) on the growth and development of orchids. <i>Cymbidium</i>, in the early stages of development in in vitro cultures was studied. Liquid PB medium, complete and without peptone, was added to the substratum. The best growth of <i>Cymbidium</i> shoots and roots was observed on pearl barley. The oat flake substratum favored the growth of shoots, however, due to poor air proportions, the numerous developing roots were damaged. The few roots which arose on the traditional agar substratum grew on its surface. Perlite provided perfect air conditions for the development of roots, but was too poor in nutrients. The presence of peptone in the medium caused the increase of fresh weight of <i>Cymbidium</i> plants. The macroelement content in the plant was dependent on the supply from the substratum used.