Paphiopedilum,
(paff-ee-oh-PED-i-lum) commonly known as
"Lady Slippers", are among the easiest
of all orchids to grow and flower. They reward
you with distinctively beautiful, long lasting
blooms. Most grow naturally on decaying
vegetation in the crevices of limestone rocks, in
swamps and in shady places near a constant water
source. While most Paphs. are hardy and will
adapt to conditions given, the are certain
fundamental requirements that should be met.
TEMPERATURE -
Certain species and their progeny have heavily
mottled leaves, and are considered warm growing.
A minimum night temperature of 60º F should be
provided. Those plants with plain green leaves
generally are considered cool growing and, in
Southern California will comfortably withstand
night temperatures in the low 40's. Daytime
temperatures are relatively unimportant provided
the plants are not under moisture stress. These
rules are flexible since most plants are highly
hybridized and are mixtures of warm and cool
growing parents.
WATERING AND
FERTILIZING - The most important consideration in
growing these plants is their watering, for they
must be kept moist at all times, never allowing
them to dry out completely. Drainage is
important, and a loose mix that allows free
release of excess water is essential. Fertilizing
can be done at every second or third watering,
using any of the basic balanced fertilizers.
Usually these are applied at one half the
recommended strength.
POTTING MIXES -
The mix must be open, loose and will drained but
moisture retentive. Seedling grade fir bark,
sponge rock, sand, peat moss and fine charcoal
are all used quite successfully. Your own growing
conditions will dictate the varying proportions.
Most mixes will last for a two year period before
breakdown. Paphs. may be repotted at any time of
the year, even in bloom. Check the mix frequently
for breakdown.
LIGHT AND
VENTILATION - Paphs. seem to grow best when
shaded rather heavily, but light requirements may
vary from plant to plant depending on the
characteristics taken from the species parents.
In general, 40% to 50% natural light will be
satisfactory. Air movement is not a important
factor, except the air around the plant must not
become stagnant.
DISEASES AND
PESTS - One of the nicest things about growing
Paphs. is that they are practically disease and
pest free. An occasional mealy bug infestation
may be encountered, but this can be controlled
with an alcohol swab as required or a judicious
spraying with any of the standard oil-free
insecticides.