The Splendid Paphiopedilum
A species from Asia Paphiopedilum insigne is a semi terrestrial orchid, mid green leaves and flowers held on tall stems. The name means ‘Badge of Honour’ and it really is a stunning Orchid.
The individual flowers are long lasting 1 – 2 months depending on the growing conditions and the individual plant.
How To Grow Paphiopedilum insigne
Growing Medium
Paphiopedilum do not produce pseudobulbs, they are semi terrestrial and therefore Paphiopedilum insigne does require access to moisture.
A simple soil mix Is medium sized pine bark with some super coarse perlite ( 5-7ml) mixed though to improve drainage works well. 70% pine bark and 30% perlite. With this you get the drainage and also some moisture retention.
Adding some vermiculite tooth mix can decrease the need for watering, however you will need to judge this according to your watering habits.
You do need to sure that the potting medium, is packed so the plant does not move around in the pot.
Light
Good filtered light for 8 hours a day is a minimum for best flower production and overall growth. So around 50% shade cloth.
You are looking for enough light to produce good glossy green leaves.
Temperature
P. Insignia is one of the species that can cooler temperatures. Try for a minimum of 12C, and a maximum of around 30C.
Humidity
The higher the temperature the more humidity, Water by drenching the growing medium and then allowing it to dry a little.
Watering
The trick to watering is to keep the growing medium moist, never wet and soggy and never dry. Watering frequency will depend on growing conditions. As a guide, water twice a week from spring through to autumn. Once week in winter.
Underwatering Paphs can quickly lead to death of the plant.
Fertiliser
Liquid fertilisers work well, In the growing season, late spring, summer through to autumn use a 1/4 strength liquid fertiliser each week. In winter you can hold back on the fertiliser.
Air Circulation
This is important to prevent fungal disease and other issues, so with growing these plants indoors you need to ensure that air circulation is good. No cold drafts and no positions near heating and cooling ducts.
