Paphiopedilum

One of the most exotic and unusual orchid groups are the ‘Slipper Orchids’ which have a slipper-shaped lip at the front of the flower which in nature, assists in pollination. In their native countries they are terrestrial, living in the ground and sometimes on rocks. They do not contain bulbs like other orchids but instead produce shoots that form into a clump with the flowers appearing from the center of the newest mature shoot. Exemplifying attractive mottled foliage at times, Paphiopedilum orchids are mainly native to the Far East.

RE-FLOWERING:

When your slipper orchid has flowered, we suggest cutting the stem right off and the plant will start to grow a new shoot, producing the next bloom when it reaches maturity. Some have single flowers; others can be multi-flowering. 

TEMPERATURE:

Most Slipper orchids are warm growing requiring a minimum temperature of 15°C, with a daytime maximum of 30°C. Some plain leafed Paphiopedilums need a cooler minimum 10°C. Strong air movement should be ensured at all times. 

LIGHT:

Keep well shaded from bright, direct summer sun as the leaves can become easily scorched. We recommend providing as much light as possible during the dull winter months. If they were grown at a low level of light, they should be accustomed to the light more gradually. Plants grown in very bright light produce more flowers, but very high levels of light make plants look bad. 

WATERING:

Keep the free-draining bark compost moist all the year round.  When watering the plant, remove it from any cover pot or saucer, pour water through the pot and then let it drain before placing it back in a decorative planter.  Never allow the pot to stand in water- we like to  spray our plants to prevent oversaturation as you can easily control water intake this way. Ensure the compost dries out slightly with the pot becoming lighter before the next watering. Avoid water collecting in the crown of the plant as this can cause rot.  You can add a little orchid fertiliser to the water once every 2 or 3 watering sessions (approx. every 10-14 days) all year round.
 

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