PAPHIOPEDILUM CULTURE

Paphiopedilums are divided into two groups, the warm-growing, mottled-leaved type, and the cool-growing, green leaved type. The flower is wax-like with a prominent pouch and dorsal sepal.

TEMPERATURE - Since most people will be growing both types of paphiopedilums together, a single intermediate culture is given. They require a minimum night temperature of 55°F to 60°F. Day temperatures should range between 70°F to 80°F.

HUMIDITY AND VENTILATION - An evaporative tray of gravel and water under the plant is usually enough, remember not to sit the plant directly on the gravel. The humidity should be moderate, 40% to 50% is enough. Natural ventilation is usually enough in the home but in enclosures and green-houses, fans should be used.

LIGHT - Direct sun, except in the early morning or late afternoon should be avoided. Paphs are low light plants and want to grow in a well shaded environment.

WATERING AND FEEDING - Always water orchids in the morning so that the plants are dry before night. How often to water depends on the potting media used, the type of pot (plastic or clay), and the size of the pot. Strive a damp media, not soaking, and never allow the plant to become bone-dry. When you water, water well, then let the plant become just moist before watering it well again. Feed Paphiopedilums in bark mixes with 30-10-10 every two weeks in the Summer, every three weeks - Spring & Fall and once a month in Winter.

PESTS - Mealy bug, aphids and mites can be controlled with insecticides like Malathion. Remember these products are intended to kill and should be used in the open air, outside your home with caution, in accordance with the manufacturers’ label. Ultrafine Oil, a paraffinic oil, which smothers bugs and their eggs is labeled for use in the home. Insecticidal Soap is also effective against these insects and safe, but it has less residual action. With any of these products some insects, and especially their eggs, will survive to breed again. One dose of even a systemic insecticide will not wipe out a large population of insects totally and completely.

 

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