New Paph. tigrinum, bad roots

[gdupont]

I purchased a Paphiopedilum tigrinum off of eBay maybe a month ago.

It's a multi-growth plant, one big old growth (very long leaves) that's dying back and two new growths that look to be maybe a year old.

It came soaked and in a small pot, so I let it dry out and then checked the roots and they are in tough shape. There's only about 4 of them and they are mostly short and one is mushy. The leaves are a little floppy, too.

I'm trying to figure out the best course of action. For options, I have: 1) hydroton leca, 2) rockwool, and 3) sphagnum. What should I use to give this tigrinum the best chance at recovery?

I also have 1) Orca Liquid Mycorrhizae - with Beneficial Bacteria, 2) Kelpak, and 3) MSU fertilizer.

Huge thanks for any advice.

[Dalachin]

I have had good luck with the "semi-hydro" method using leca using Ray's method of drilling a hole in a container 1-2 inches from the bottom. I use kelpak when repotting. I have a number of Paphs that I received in rough condition that seem to be making a comeback, most are in semi-hydro and the rest in bark and perlite.

[gdupont]

Awesome. That ok for tigrinum in particular? I was sternly suggested against SH for tigrinum years back

[Jmoney]

tigrinum is not cheap nor it it considered easy to grow. I would send it back to the vendor personally. or at least note it if it croaks.

[Dalachin]

No, I don't grow tigrinum (yet). And Jmoney has a good point.