First Paph. Culture info???

[Country Gramma]

Hi Orchid Lovers,

I just got this today and it's my first paph. I've spent quite a bit of time researching the culture so as not to sound too !!!

What I found sounded very easy so I thought maybe someone could give me more info.

I am in MA and grow inside under T5 and CFL lights. I'm trying to move a lot of 'chids into S/H whenever possible.

Here are some pics. Any suggestions would be helpful.

Thanks, Karen

[slipperfreak]

It looks like a Brachypetalum cross and that means that it will like to be kept somewhat drier than other Paphs. Allow the potting mix to dry out quite a bit before you water again (like a Phal).

Fairly low to moderate light - T5 lights will work fine. Warm temps are preferred. You will want to maintain air movement around the plant, especially if your humidity is high. These are prone to crown rot. Fertilize at 1/4 to 1/2 strength every week, and flush with pure water when you can as mineral build-up can become harmful for these guys.

Hope that helps .

[Country Gramma]

Joe,

Thanks, I'm so sorry that I did not give the name: Paph godefroyae FMA Alba x In-charm White Chao Chou. Wow...is that a mouthful or what???

Just took some readings:
Under T5's: temp:71 Humid.:46%
Under CFL: temp:67 Humid:55%

The lights go off around 11PM but the humidifier is on 24/7 aimed toward the T5 shelf...but the CFL shelf gets some benefit from it.

Thanks for the detailed info.

Do you have a suggestion as to which shelf would be better?

Karen

[slipperfreak]

I would use the T5 shelf. The plant will appreciate the brighter light, and the humidity situation shouldn't be a problem. Plus, it's warmer there.

[Country Gramma]

Thanks Joe, I think the bud is not going to make it. I might check the roots and see if I can move it to S/H now rather than later. Maybe I will get it to bloom again. BTW the T5 shelf does get down to the low 60's at night sometimes. Is that too low for it???

Sorry I didn't see your answer sooner.

Thanks, Karen

[slipperfreak]

Originally Posted by Country Gramma

Thanks Joe, I think the bud is not going to make it. I might check the roots and see if I can move it to S/H now rather than later. Maybe I will get it to bloom again. BTW the T5 shelf does get down to the low 60's at night sometimes. Is that too low for it???

Sorry I didn't see your answer sooner.

Thanks, Karen

Nope low 60s at night is fine, especially in the winter.

[Country Gramma]

Thanks again, Joe