How to Grow Paphiopedilum Orchids
Paphiopedilum orchids, or lady's slippers, are one of the simplest orchids to grow for home gardeners, according to the Iowa State Extension. These orchids require little light and are tolerant of slight temperature fluctuations, providing the grower with less chance of harming the plants. The plants earn their common name from the shape of their lower petal, which resembles a small pouch or the toe of a slipper. Paphiopedilums bloom in a variety of colors, and some types have mottled foliage. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Place the orchids in an area with daytime temperatures between 75 and 85 F during the daytime and between 55 and 65 F at night. Avoid areas that receive cool or warm drafts from vents, windows or doors.
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Provide at least six hours of bright, indirect sunlight to the orchids each day. Alternately, supply light from two 40-watt incandescent bulbs for 14 hours each day. Set the bulbs so they are approximately 8 inches above the orchid.
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Fill the pot's drip tray with a layer of pebbles. Add water to the tray until the water level is just beneath the top of the petals. Set the orchid pot on top the pebbles and replenish the water as necessary. As the water evaporates, it supplies the necessary humidity to the plants.
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Water the plant at its base as soon as the soil surface begins to dry. Irrigate until the excess moisture begins running out the bottom of the pot to ensure the soil is evenly moist throughout.
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Fertilize orchids once weekly with a soluble 10-10-10 analysis fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to one-fourth the strength recommended on the package.
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Tips & Warnings
Paphiopedilums grow best in soil-less potting mixtures containing bark, leaf mold and sphagnum moss. Avoid potting mixes with soils, as these are too heavy for the plants.
Do not wet the foliage when watering, as this leads to plant rot and can kill the orchid.
References
- Photo Credit lady slipper image by dave verch from Fotolia.com
