Paphiopedilums |
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Paphiopedilums are more commonly called ‘paphs’ or slippers’. In
nature they grow in decaying organic matter, principally in the south
eastern Asian countries. Some plants have a very attractive mottled leaf
pattern. Flowers can last a long time, four to six weeks even as a cut
flower. Their flowers exhibit a large variation in shape and colour.
They are easy to grow and are very rewarding. The following information
is a guide to help you grow these plants successfully.
POSITION
Paphs are low light orchids and will burn severely if given direct sun
(80% or more shade is required to prevent burning), this shade should be
applied all year. They can be grown successfully indoors, near a shaded
east or west window. The ideal amount of light is achieved when no
shadow is cast when a hand is held above the plant. Too much shade
causes soft growth and reduced flowering. The plant will also be more
susceptible to disease.
TEMPERATURE
In nature paphs can be found in regions ranging from sea level to higher
altitudes in the mountains. This means some plants will grow “cold”
while others will require heat in winter to grow best. Mottled leaf
varieties will grow slowly during winter when grown cold compared to
plain leaf types. For best growth a minimum of 12° should be aimed for.
Cooler temperatures are not detrimental, providing the plants are kept a
little drier. Maximum temperatures up to about 30° will not cause stress
to the plant. Higher temperatures can be reduced by increasing shade and
ventilation. Plants grown in the house are happy with temperatures
humans prefer.
VENTILATION
All orchids like fresh air. Good air circulation reduces attack from
fungus and bacteria and ensures the foliage is dry by nightfall.
WATERING
Paphs should be slightly moist at all times. This does not mean soaking
wet or leaving pots sitting in a saucer of water. Enough water should be
supplied so it runs out of the bottom of the pot. We water our plants
three times a week in the very hot summer, reducing to every third or
forth day during the winter. Underwatering can lead to a salt build up
with the consequence of a loss of plant roots.
HUMIDITY
Ideal humidity is 50% to 70%. Since plants have no storage organs
(bulbs), humidity must be closely monitored. Dampening down around the
plant is better than misting since it reduces the salt build up on
leaves and the chance of leaf rot due to water accumulating in the leaf
axils.
FERTILIZING
Paphs are extremely light feeders. A liquid fertilizer can be used, half
strength Aquasol or similar every fortnight during the warmer months.
Never feed a dry plant.
POTTING MIX
We are using a pinebark called “Aus Gro”. Depending on the plant size we
use either grade 1 or 2, (small size). Many different types of mixes can
be used providing they allow free drainage plus possess water retentive
properties. Small plants should be repotted every year, larger plants
every second year.
PESTS AND DISEASES
The only troublesome pest that attacks paphs is the mealy bug. Malathion
will eradicate it. Bacterial and fungal rots occur if culture is poor.
Increase ventilation and reduce watering. Remove the diseased parts if
possible and spray with a fungicide/bactericide or sprinkle the diseased
part of the plant with cinnamon powder.
These notes are only a guide as growing conditions vary from one place
to another. For good culture, observation of your plants is essential.
We wish you success and enjoy the rewarding outcome!