Questions about my Paphiopedilum

[greenpointer]

Hi

I have a Paphiopedilum for the last 6 months+- that I got from IKEA. I think it is doing very well but since the flower it had when I got it, it doesn't have any new shoot for a new flower. I remember that this type of orchid only flowers once a year. is this correct?

My orchid sits on a east facing window in brooklyn NY. The flower looked like this when I got it -
http://www.rv-orchidworks.com/orchid...ph-bloom-1.jpg

This is how my orchid looks


I have a few questions -

1. What kind of fertilizer should I use (non expensive) and how?

2. Should I cut and replant the new shoot my plant has? (it is visible in the pictures)

Thanks!!

[PaphMadMan]

Your plant looks basically healthy and should bloom when each new growth is mature enough if you have given it good care. This may be once a year but can be more often. The old growth that has already bloomed will not bloom again but is important in continuing to support the new growth. DO NOT cut off the new shoot. It will not be strong enough to bloom on its own if it even survives. Don't remove old growths until they are dead, and don't divide the plant unless each piece will have at least 2 healthy growths.

You may be able to find water soluble fertilizer meant specifically for orchids at any garden center or even stores like WalMart. If not, any water soluble fertilizer for African violets or other potted plants will do - with a relatively low nitrogen content if you can find it. Follow directions on the package but at 1/4 the strength indicated.

Your plant is at the right stage to be repotted, which should be done about once a year with Paphs. It is a Maudiae-type Paph and you should be able to find general care instructions pretty easily.

[greenpointer]

Thank you for the information!
I didn't know that the old growth will only flower once... that is sad. But as long as I will be able to witness one flower a year I will be happy.

In regard to the replanting you mentioned - the plant is currently in its original plastic container and it sits inside the clay pot - unplanted. Should I transfer it to a bigger pot? if so, can you please explain exactly how to do so as I have never did it or give me a link to a simple explanation of how to do so.

Thank you soooo much for the tips. I appreciate it.

Originally Posted by PaphMadMan

Your plant looks basically healthy and should bloom when each new growth is mature enough if you have given it good care. This may be once a year but can be more often. The old growth that has already bloomed will not bloom again but is important in continuing to support the new growth. DO NOT cut off the new shoot. It will not be strong enough to bloom on its own if it even survives. Don't remove old growths until they are dead, and don't divide the plant unless each piece will have at least 2 healthy growths.

You may be able to find water soluble fertilizer meant specifically for orchids at any garden center or even stores like WalMart. If not, any water soluble fertilizer for African violets or other potted plants will do - with a relatively low nitrogen content if you can find it. Follow directions on the package but at 1/4 the strength indicated.

Your plant is at the right stage to be repotted, which should be done about once a year with Paphs. It is a Maudiae-type Paph and you should be able to find general care instructions pretty easily.

[billc]

Try this link from OrchidWeb.
OrchidWeb.com: Orchid Learning Center - Paphiopedilum/Phragmipedium Repotting Video

Bill

[CTB]

Good video, let your orchid fill up the pot with fans before going to a bigger pot. The foliage makes a nice plant without the bloom Enjoy!

[PaphMadMan]

I agree with Bill and Carol. The video is much better than any explanation we could give here, and your plant doesn't need a larger pot, just fresh media. I do disagree with the video on one point - Paphs should be repotted every year while they are still small enough to do it easily. They like fresh media.

[greenpointer]

Originally Posted by PaphMadMan

I agree with Bill and Carol. The video is much better than any explanation we could give here, and your plant doesn't need a larger pot, just fresh media. I do disagree with the video on one point - Paphs should be repotted every year while they are still small enough to do it easily. They like fresh media.

Than for the info!

I already went to Home Depot and got a bigger plastic pot and potting soil. Should I replant in the bigger one or just replant in the same one?

[Zoi2]

Your current pot is plenty big for your plant. You will be able to get several new fans in it.
Joann