Phragmipedium orchids are also known as slipper orchids. Twenty kinds of these types of orchids can be found from South West Mexico to Central and South America. The blooms are rather unique with colors ranging from the shades of green, pink, orange and red. Some kinds of phragmipediums can last for 6 to 11 months at a time.
The most important thing to remember about phragmipediums is the moisture needs it has. Now if you want to cultivate this genus of orchids, there are certain things you need to think about. In order to cultivate them successfully there are certain decisions you have to make. Here are 5 questions you need to ask yourself to help you with your decisions:
How much light do I give them?
Phragmipedium orchids require bright indirect sunlight to successfully create vibrant blooms. They can be situated on South or West windowsills and be left there for hours at a time. A man-made light source also works for these types of orchids such as fluorescent light bulbs or metal halide lamps.
You can always check their leaves to know if they are getting sufficient light. If you see that the foliage is becoming yellowish, then it means they need more sunlight. Dark green leaves mean they require less of it. The ideal color for the leaves is light-green; this means that the orchids are enjoying sufficient lighting.
How much water and humidity do they need?
These types of orchids thrive in humidity levels of 60%-70%. In these settings, phragmipedium flowers can grow the best. Although its hybrids can also grow well under humidity levels that do not drop below 35%.
One particular rule for these plants that you must follow is to always keep the roots moist. Some even go as far as growing these orchids in containers sitting in a small tray in about a centimeter of water. Change this water once every week. Water the plant just when the compost is beginning to dry with an amount equaling to the volume of the pot.
Never leave water on the crown of the plant because this can cause the roots to rot. Use rain water or naturally soft water if possible. If you want to water them with hard water, hose it down once every month to eliminate salt deposits.
What kind of pots and potting media should I use?
Plastic pots and clay pots are great for phragmipediums. A good suggestion would also be placing the plastic pots inside larger clay pots. Clay pots stay cool during warm weathers and shield the plastic pots from the heat and drying up the roots when exposed to sunlight.
Select a potting medium that adequately holds moisture and has a lot of air circulation so the roots can breathe and are kept moist. Fir bark mixed with 1 part charcoal and perlite are preferred for these kinds of orchids. This type of mixture will keep the roots moist and give them adequate drainage for the orchid.
What is the ideal temperature to keep it in?
Phragmipedium orchids are kept in locations with daytime temperatures of 70-80°F and nighttime temperatures of 50-60°F. Monitoring your blossoms helps a lot in the growth of the flowers. Cooler weather during nighttime can produce vibrant and colorful blooms.
Although they can withstand extreme weather, it is still a good idea to cultivate them in these conditions to keep them in good condition. Ventilation is also vital to keep an eye on together with temperature. Intermediate conditions can still create a healthy plant just as long as it is not left in harsh settings for more than a total of two weeks.
How often must it be repotted?
Phragmipedium orchids usually must be repotted every one to two years. When doing so, see if the roots have some rotting in them. Cut off any dead ones and then repot.
The best time for repotting is when new buds start to grow and after blossoming. If you notice that the medium starts to break down, then this too is a good time for repotting.
Use a new mix of the same kind of potting compost you used beforehand. These types of orchids flourish all year-round and are very tolerant when it comes to repotting. Also, be sure that it has proper drainage.
