The cultivation of Disa cardinalis and its hybrids is very similar to that of D. uniflora and the remaining species of the D. tripetaloides group. The plants of this group are by far the better-known disas in cultivation as they are comparatively easy to grow. However, both the specialized habitat requirements and the annual growth cycle have to be taken into account by the grower and certain rules have to be followed.

All orchids are strictly protected by law in South Africa, and it is therefore highly illegal to remove any plants from the wild. Fortunately, there are a number of specialist nurseries that stock Disa cardinalis, where plants for cultivation can be purchased.

The leafy shoot grows slowly throughout winter (June to October). Growth speeds up in spring and the flowering shoot emerges from the leaf rosette. A vital phase in the annual growth cycle takes place at flowering time with the formation of a replacement tuber (the old one will eventually die and with it the above-ground shoot), and any disturbance during this period, such as premature repotting, can be fatal. The leafy shoot emerges a few months after flowering.

Because of its habitat on the edge of mountain streams, Disa cardinalis is adapted to a rather cool environment. It is particularly essential to keep the soil cool in cultivation (below 20ºC in summer) which in nature is achieved by the cold mountain water. Summer daytime temperatures may well exceed 30ºC, to which the plants are also well adapted in their natural habitat in the Karoo. Adequate soil moisture, bright light, humidity above 60 % and good aeration are also essential requirements for a successful cultivation.

Plants are best grown in small pots (10-15 cm) filled with a well-drained mixture of silica-grit, sand and palm fibre. They should be watered daily as the roots must never dry out. It is of utmost importance that the water is clean (i.e. very low in salts, for example rainwater) and of low pH (5-6). However, be careful not to over-water as this would lead to rapid rot! Repotting should be done in autumn in the southern hemisphere, which is a few months after flowering when the new shoots are already vigorous. Feed mainly in late winter and spring, and use a diluted inorganic fertilizer.

Disa cardinalis multiplies vegetatively by stolons which produce new plants and the species can therefore be propagated by division. However, the propagation by seeds is much more efficient. Seeds of D. cardinalis and related species can be sown directly on peat or moss and need not be raised on agar in sterile flasks like most other orchids. Seedling trays are covered with foil to provide extra humidity. As soon as the seedlings are sufficiently vigorous, they can be transferred to a seedling mix and later to the ordinary substrate. Flowers can be expected after two to three years.

There are various pests and diseases but many of them can be avoided by correct cultivation, e.g. adequate temperature, no over-watering, general cleanliness (removal of dead leaves). The greatest threat to any Disa collection is fungal infections. Stem and root rot can destroy a plant within a few days and should be controlled with adequate fungicides, and also preventative treatment is available. Aphids, red spider mites and thrips are often also a problem, the latter two especially if the growing environment is too warm.