How do you care for a long-pouched Paphiopedilum? Learn along to grow it well

Paphiopedilum, also known as the slipper orchid, is famous for its leaves that curl into a pouch. The flowering time of Paphiopedilum varies by variety: warm-growing mottled-leaf varieties mostly bloom in summer and autumn, while cool-growing green-leaf varieties mostly bloom in winter and spring. The flowering period can last one month, and some Paphiopedilum varieties can even bloom year-round.

Paphiopedilum likes a shady, ventilated and humid environment. When growing Paphiopedilum, the soil in the pot should be kept moist; do not wait until the soil is dry before watering, because under dry conditions its flowers wither and drop very easily and prematurely. While keeping the soil moist, be careful not to let water accumulate, and let the roots breathe; otherwise root rot is extremely likely.

Paphiopedilum has very high soil requirements, because its root system is short and small and it rots very easily, so the soil must be moist, ventilated and breathable. When planting Paphiopedilum, do not choose a pot that is too large, otherwise it defeats the purpose and the plant blooms with difficulty. It also needs frequent soil changes, at least once a year, to grow well.

When mixing the soil, you can use peat soil : leaf mold : perlite : sand and gravel in a 3:4:2:1 ratio. Before potting, place a layer of carbon balls at the bottom of the pot to help with drainage. The best time to repot and change the soil is in spring and autumn or after the flowers fade; do not do it after flower buds appear or while the plant is blooming, otherwise the buds are likely to wither or the flowers to wither prematurely during the acclimatisation period.

In summer, Paphiopedilum must especially avoid direct sunlight. Too intense sunlight or too long a sunlight period will wither its petals and leaves, so it is best kept in a place that receives scattered light. During periods of soft sunlight, you may appropriately place Paphiopedilum on a balcony for a short period of supplementary sunlight; at other times it is not recommended.

The care environment for Paphiopedilum needs to be ventilated: not only the roots need ventilation, but the branches and leaves above the soil also need ventilation. If the plant grows large or becomes too dense, divide it into separate pots in time; the best time is of course spring. However, do not place Paphiopedilum in a windy draughty spot or where a fan or air conditioner blows directly on it.