|
PAPHIOPEDILUMS Paphiopedilums are also known as lady-slipper orchids. They are often considered to the some of the easiest orchids for beginners to try because of their ease of culture. Their exotic flowers are very long-lasting (up to 2 months). They invoke such passion from people that there are growers who will only grow paphiopedilums and nothing else. LIGHT: Paphiopedilums does not require high light to bloom and are perfect candidates for artificial lighting. The proper light level ranges from 1,500-2,000 foot candles. They can be grown very well with phalaenopsis. TEMPERATURE: Paphiopedilums tolerate a wide range of temperatures; the recommended temperature range is 55 degrees F to 85 degrees F for the green-leafed paphs, and 5 degrees F warmer for the mottled-leafed paphs. WATER: Paphiopedilums are terrestrials and need a fairly constant supply of moisture. The potting medium should be constantly moist and should never dry out completely. Always water early in the morning so that the leaves dry out before nightfall. Standing water inside the leaves will cause rot. HUMIDITY: Paphiopedilums need humidity between 50% and 80%. In a home growing environment, humidity can be increased by the use of trays partially filled with gravel and water so that the pots never sit in water. In humid climates, provide your paphiopedilums with good air circulation so that the leaves can dry before nightfall. FERTILIZER: Paphiopedilums are not heavy feeders and will exhibit leaf tip burns when they are over-fertilized. Use a balanced (20-20-20) fertilizer applied at ΒΌ strength every week to every two weeks. Flush with plain water once a month. POTTING: Paphiopedilums are possibly the only orchids that do not resent being repotted while in bloom. They require frequent repotting (at least once a year). They do best in small but deep plastic pots. Choose a pot that can barely contain the root system. Use a semi-terrestrial mix such as 50 percent medium-fine fir bark, 25 percent coarse perlite, 25 percent phagnum moss. |
