General:
    The "Old World" Slipper Orchid species (Genus Paphiopedilum), affectionately referred to simply as "Paphs" are found as far north as China, and as far south along the Malaysian archipelago, as Papua, New Guinea. The natural habitat experiences heavy rainfall - sometimes as much as ten feet per year - high humidity, vigorous air movement and shady growing conditions.

   The "New World" Slipper Orchid species, (Genus Phragmipedium), affectionately referred to simply as "Phrags" are found in Central and South America, usually growing close to streams or other water sources. While the rainfall of most Phrag habitats are less than that of Paph habitats. Phrag roots always grow in saturated zones - sometimes in the water itself. For most Slipper Orchid species and all of the hybrids, satisfactory growing conditions can easily be provided in the home with minimal effort. A greenhouse is not necessary to grow these rare and beautiful orchids.

Light:
    On average, about 1,500 foot candles for Paphs and 1,800 foot-candles for Phrags. These light levels can be found in an east window, or 4 to 6 inches below the fluorescent lights of a typical light cart. A west or south window can be used as long as a shear curtain reduces the intensity of the light. Slipper Orchids exposed to excessive bright, hot sunlight will eventually die.

Temperature:
    Both types of Slipper Orchids will thrive in Day temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F, and night temperatures from 60°F to 65°F. As temperatures rise, plant transpiration increases and additional water is needed. As temperatures fall, less water is required. We recommend the use of a Max/Min Thermometer.

Humidity:
   50% to 80% relative humidity can be provided by placing the pots in the tray filled with 1" to 2" of polished river rock, and 3/4 inch of water. The evaporation will increase the humidity around the plants. Misting is appropriate as long as the plants dry off by night-fall. Tindara Orchids recommends the copper humidity trays which have been endorsed by the American Orchid Society or plastic humidity trays.

Air Movement:
   A small fan operating 24 hours a day in the growing area will provide all the air movement necessary. As air movement increases across the surface of the leaf, transpiration increases and the plant will require more water.

    Water about every 4-5 days, summer or Winter. Some growers have been successful growing their Phrags & Paphs in copper humidity trays. Keep damp, not soaking wet. We usually let the plants dry out slightly. We found that over-watering is one of the major reasons for plants loss. For the best watering applications use the DRAMM Water Breakers or the FOGG-IT Nozzles.

    Fertilizer with a low nitrogen fertilizer every month. Add a capful of SUPERthrive to your fertilizer to promote healthy orchids. We prefer to use Algoflash or MAXSEA fertilizer. Jack’s Classic is also a very good balanced, professional fertilizer.

    Slipper Orchids can not grow in regular house plant soil - the roots will die. Instead, use a coconut chip based medium as an alternative, TINDARA ORCHIDS offers a complete balanced Slipper Orchid Mix, with micronutrients, called  in 3 lb. and 6 lb. sizes.

    All Slipper Orchids like annual repotting for optimal health. Simply remove the plant from the old pot, shake off the roots to remove the old mix, place the plant in an appropriately sized new pot and fill around the roots with fresh mix. The Aircone Orchid Pot or the clear Plastic Orchid Pots are great for repotting your orchids. Water thoroughly and add a capful of SUPERthrive when you water.