cypripedium care

[barryrb]

I have a cyp mac X cyp pub that has bloomed for me two yrs now. It blooms in April. The question is after it drys up ,do I keep giving it water to keep the roots wet or let it dry up completely? I didn't make notes as to what I did last yr. In its natural habitat what does it do? I live here in the central valley of cal. where last week it was a 105 degs. Thanks

[The Orchid Boy]

Welcome to Orchid Board!

Keep watering it until frost comes. There are cypripediums around me that get water all the time. See here for in the wild pictures: Found wild Cyp. candidum!!!

[barryrb]

Thanks much do they require any fert. while growing? I have been told none.

[The Orchid Boy]

They do require nutrients. Usually they are ok if in the ground but need more nutrients in pots. I fertilize mine that are in the ground in early to mid spring before they bloom.

[barryrb]

Mine are in pots .How about a diluted fish fert. Thanks

[The Orchid Boy]

That'd work just fine

[barryrb]

Thanks Barry