PH?

[gixrj18]

Does anyone know where to find a chart or something (if such a thing exists) listing all of the preferred PH levels for various species?

[slipperfreak]

I have some info on pH for Paph and Cyp species, that's it. The info comes from two of Cribb's books, The Genus Cypripedium and the Genus Paphiopedilum.

If you want the info, let me know.

[orchids3]

I know that some plants like differant pH levels but generally 5.8 to 6.2 will do well with most plants in your collection. The consideration is that more of one fertilizer component is taken up differant pH levels than at others - Good info at Notes on Fertilizer use
and Slipper Articles . This web site deals with lady slippers but the information is good and explains the principles of pH and fertilizer very well.

[gixrj18]

Thanks everyone, I was aware of most of that, and I keep mine around 6.0. But those Paph articles and formulas were great, they helped. Thank you very much!

[euplusia]

Interesting question-but why do you want to know. If its for cultivation - most of our orchids are epiphytic. Rainwater is slightly acidulous, because CO2 + H2O make H2CO3, pH 6,5 -6,8. Vulcanic eruptions can add sulphuric acid in low concentration. But for healthy growth all plants need some Calcium to strengthen the cells, also to counterbalance acidulous groups of rotting bark. Keep in mind that it is impossible to tell a pH for the milieu around the roots running along the bark of a tree. It is also impossible to measure the pH of a coarse orchid mix.
Only if the organic material (sphagnum, bark) decomposits, you can tell a pH. Then its unsuitable for potting epiphytic orchids.
Even plants from the so-called ant gardens, Gongorinae especially Coryanthes do better in standard mix. I´ve heard about people adding formic acid, but wouldn´t try myself.
For terrestrials things are different. Some paphis (niveum, bellatulum) grow on lime rocks. And conditions for germination of terrestric orchids are a scientific matter.

[orchids3]

I see that my links to information were deleted - is there a rule about that? Will try to follow rules.

[gixrj18]

I am not measuring the mix, just the water going into it.....so I can control the mix by what's going into it. The reason I ask, is because I have many different species, and I know types of plants do better in different PH ranges. I was just curious if there was any quick-reference lists, but "orchids3" answered a lot of my questions....Thank you, everyone.