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Phalaenopsis
Cattleya
Oncidieae
Cymbidium
Vanda / Ascocenda
Dendrobium
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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. Commonly called the Lady Slipper Orchid.
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 greenhouses, 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 for 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 Peters 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
or X-clude, Kelthane is especially effective against mites. Remember
these products are intended to kill and should be used in the open air
outside your home. A light horticultural oil, like Year Round, (not
a dormant oil) which smothers bugs and their eggs is quite effective
against most pests and fairly safe. Insecticidal Soap is also
effective against these insects and reasonably 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. In the home, vigilance is often the best defense against
pests. If you get them early, before they start laying eggs, they can be
eliminated relatively easily. Remember
to use any of these products with caution and in accordance with the
manufacturers label.
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