Paphiopedilums, or "slipper orchids," originate from the jungles of the Far East and Indonesia. They are semi-terrestrial, growing in humus and other material on the forest floor, on cliffs in pockets and occasionally in trees. They are easy to grow in the home, under lights or in a greenhouse. Blooms last an average of 6 to 12 weeks. Some varieties bloom several times each year.

LIGHT

In the home "Paphs" prefer bright, indirect light from an east, west or south window. Direct sunlight is tolerated for up to 2 hours each day, but no more. Be careful not to burn the leaves of your paphiopedilum with too much hot midday sun.

TEMPERATURE

Paphs are separated into two groups: warm-growing mottled-leaf types and the cool- growing solid green-leaf types. Warm growers should be kept between 60° and 85°, while cool growers like 50° to 80° Both types enjoy day to night temperature differential of 10° to 15° to set bud spikes. Growing both types in the same temperature range can be done with excellent results.

HUMIDITY

Paphiopedilums enjoy moderate humidity, between 40 and 60% which can be maintained by setting the plants on Humidity Trays, Misting plants in the morning and grouping plants together also increases and maintains humidity.

WATER

Since paphs have no pseudobulbs they store water only in their leaves. Therefore they need to be kept evenly moist, but not soggy. Water once to twice a week. If you find your paph dry, it should have been watered yesterday. Take your plant to the sink, water thoroughly (water runs freely from the pot), drain well. NEVER ALLOW THE POT TO STAND IN WATER!

FERTILIZER

The roots of paphs have very sensitive "hairs", which are easily damaged by excessive use of fertilizer We recommend using Peters 30-10-10. Dilute ¼ teaspoon per gallon and apply every third watering. Never fertilize a dry paphiopedilum, water it first then fertilize.

Note: Mix your fertilizer ahead and store in a plastic container that can be labeled and capped (such as a used gallon milk jug). This ensures the solution is thoroughly diluted, at room temp. and is convenient to use.

REPOTTING

For best results repot every year, using a fine or medium grade firbark mix. Mixes vary tremendously due to additives such as perlite, sponge rock, coarse sand, sphagnum moss, charcoal etc. Choose a mix for moisture retention with excellent drainage. Divide large plants by pulling or cutting apart into clumps of 3 to 5 growths. Plants that are not divided are shifted to larger pots for division next year Spread the roots over a small amount of mix in the bottom of the pot and fill in with mix, so that the junction of roots and plant is buried ½ inch deep in the center of the pot. Do not over pot. Average mature plants should have a 4" to 6" pot.

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