curious about trying out a sanderianum hybrid

[Pk93]

Hello, haven't been on this forum in a while, but glad i am again now
SO.... to the questions now
-what sanderianum hybrids would be less of a challenge to grow?

-Where should i grow them?

-How should i grow them?

-Any reliable online sellers of these hybrids?

Thank you in advance

[Ray]

I assume you're referring to Paphiopedilum sanderianum (there are also plants with that specific name in the genera bulbophyllum, dendrobium, and odontoglossum), but I think the only significant "challenge" with them, compared to many other paphs, is the need for patience!

[slipperfreak]

I can't really say that there are any sanderianum hybrids that are particularly difficult to grow. As Ray pointed out, they are just quite slow growing most of the time.

Some examples of sand hybrids are Michael Koopowitz, Prince Edward of York, Booth's Sand Lady, and Angel Hair. There are many others, but I can't think of them at the moment. The first two I listed are probably the most popular though.

They like fairly bright light, and should take Cattleya light as long as it isn't brutally hot, there's good air movement and they get ample moisture. Around 2500 fc is best. Like any Paph, they like to be kept moist but never wet, and should dry to dampness between waterings. They should be fertilized at half strength every week. Finally, they like intermediate temps. So really, they are grown the same as any Paph but with brighter light. They usually get quite big (after a while), so keep that in mind.

There are many reliable online sellers, such as Orchids Limited, Orchids by Hausermann/Fox Valley, Piping Rock, Orchid Inn... the list goes on. Between those you should get a pretty good selection. Here are some links:

Buy Orchids and Orchid Supplies
Fox Valley Orchids,Ltd - Lady's Slipper Orchid Specialists
Piping Rock Orchids Home Page
Orchid Inn, Ltd.

[quiltergal]

Buy the biggest one you can afford. If you buy a seedling you might be as old as Methusela before it blooms!

[Pk93]

thank you for all of the advice and suggestions..
What would you consider blooming size on a "prince edward of york" or a "michael koopowitz"

[slipperfreak]

Originally Posted by Pk93

thank you for all of the advice and suggestions..
What would you consider blooming size on a "prince edward of york" or a "michael koopowitz"

Either would probably need to have at least a 20-24" leafspan to be blooming size. They will probably be in 5" pots at this size, maybe 6".