There are an unimaginable number of flowers in the world that amaze with their beauty. Some grow only in the wild, others are planted by flower growers in flowerbeds in the spring, and some look out of the windows of apartments.
One of the most beautiful and unique houseplants are Paphiopedilum orchids. In our country they are better known under the name "Venus slipper". Now flower shops are replete with various hybrids of this variety. What breeders are capable of in order to surprise the buyer and attract his attention. But true connoisseurs of orchids experience delight and pleasure when they watch this kind of so-called mix orchids.
Description of the plant
If you decide to purchase a plant such as the orchid "pafiopedilum" ("Venus slipper"), then decide on itsThe view can be easily seen from the photo. Caring for him is no more difficult than for any other plants from this family. By the way, "paphiopedilum" belongs to the orchid family. However, its special shape, which resembles a woman's shoe, helps to stand out from the general mass of this subspecies. It is thanks to the outlines that the flower got its second name.
Paphiopedilum orchids bloom all year round. This happens due to the fact that the ground part of the plant does not have the ability to die off for the winter, but remains green throughout the year. The leaves may have decorative patterns and marbled patterns, or simply a decorative color. They can also vary in shape from oval to belt-shaped. The leaf may have a leathery texture or be juicy and soft. It depends on the conditions in which the plant grew.
Pafiopedilum orchid: home care
This plant, like all members of its family, is very demanding and capricious. He needs to pay maximum attention in order to be able to enjoy the bright and colorful flowering. Orchid "pafiopedilum", the care of which consists not only in watering and fertilizing, does not impose special requirements, except for lighting. It can perfectly be in partial shade, it is not necessary to put it on the windowsill. If some of your pets must be in direct sunlight, then absolutely any place that you give him in your home will suit this plant.
Paphiopedilum orchid, which is no different from other types of orchids, is sensitive to ambient temperature. That is why this indicator in the room should be tried to be kept constant and monitored regularly. If it gets too hot, your plant may even die.
Temperature and lighting
The optimal summer temperatures for the Paphiopedilum orchid are plus 23-28 degrees, and in winter the temperature regime can fluctuate between plus 18-23 degrees. For cold-resistant varieties with wide and dark leaves, these figures may be slightly lower. However, you must always remember that the temperature at night should always be 3-5 degrees lower than during the day. When the temperature drops to +4 degrees and below, the plants die.
As far as light is concerned, Paphiopedilum orchids are quite shade tolerant, but do best in good ambient light. Direct sunlight is not well tolerated. In order for flowering to proceed normally in winter, it is recommended to install special lamps to organize additional illumination.
Orchid "Paphiopedilum Rothschild"
Currently, this variety is gaining popularity among indoor flower lovers. It is a rather large orchid, which can reach a height of 40-60 cm. The leaves are bright green, but turn yellowish in bright light.
Of particular interest are flowers that can reach a diameter of 30-45 centimeters. Flowering occurs almost simultaneously and lasts quite a long time. The flowers have a delicate shade, covered with dark spots. This gives them additional decorativeness and sophistication. The orchid "pafiopedilum", the price of which is quite justified and acceptable (about 1000-2000 rubles), can bring great joy to its owner. Also, this plant will be a great gift.
Water and humidification
Paphiopedilum orchids are moisture-loving flowers, they do not tolerate drying out of the soil. However, overwatering can also be bad. When the plant goes through the stage of active growth, watering should be maximum, and after flowering it can be completely reduced. It should be watered with clean water at room temperature, which, moreover, should still be soft. When watering, avoid getting moisture directly on the leaves and outlet. The ideal watering method is to place the pot in a tray of water.
It is important to monitor the air humidity, which should be at least 70-80%. However, spraying the plant is by no means recommended. In order to increase the humidity in the room, you can use a special humidifier.
Soil selection and top dressing
The main requirement for the soil for the Paphiopedilum orchid is that itmust retain moisture well. Often pine bark, sphagnum and charcoal can be included in the composition of the soil. The soil should be fairly light and fluffy.
Orchids should be fed at least once a month, and during the flowering period it is recommended to carry out this procedure twice. You can use mineral fertilizers specially designed for this, but it is better to halve the recommended proportions. "Pafiopedilum" does not tolerate excess s alts in the soil. In order to avoid this, you can water the flower with distilled water, and next time add mineral fertilizers.
Plant transplant
Transplantation of the Paphiopedilum orchid is a delicate matter, because it is very difficult to tolerate this procedure. That is why this is done in the spring and not more often than once every two or three years. If the soil has not yet begun to decompose, then you can wait. The pot must be taken quite wide, but shallow. Everything must be done carefully and carefully, without damaging the roots. After transplanting, the plant is not watered for 3-4 days.
Reproduction
It is best to propagate orchids of this species by dividing the bush during transplantation. To do this, on each division, no less than three sockets with roots should be left. If the number of divisions is reduced, then they can take root for a very long time, and flowering will not come soon. After the plant is planted, it is not watered for a couple of weeks. The room temperature should not exceed 22 degrees.
Diseases andpests
Like any houseplant, Paphiopedilum can be susceptible to disease and pests. Most often, spider mites, scale insects or mealybugs attack the flower. If you notice something suspicious (for example, small insects), it is better to rinse the orchid under a warm shower and wipe it with a gauze swab. If the pests hit your pet badly, then insecticides will come to the rescue.
Spider mites tend to suck the plant's sap. To get rid of it or take preventive measures, you need to wipe the flower with alcohol or a solution of soap. With a strong lesion, a 0.1% solution of karbofos helps well.
In order to avoid damage by fungal and viral diseases during transplantation, it is necessary to observe sterility and prevent excessive waterlogging of the soil. By following these safety measures, your green friend will be he althy and will delight you with abundant flowering.
Everyone who owns one or another variety of orchid has at least once encountered its pests and diseases. However, at the first manifestation of the disease, you should not panic, but immediately take measures for prevention and treatment. If everything is done on time and correctly, then in the near future there will be no trace of trouble, and the flower will continue to develop further to the delight of the owners.
