Is this a Paph I got at Trader Joe's?

[glitchathon]

All the Trader Joe's orchids seem to have a tag except for this one which just said "3" Orchid".




Is this a terrestrial or epiphyte? Any idea on proper care and medium to use?

Thanks so much!

[Ray]

Sure is. That would be characterized as a "Maudiae type" hybrid.

[glitchathon]

Thanks Ray!

These TJ bought $8 orchids are always packed tight in Sphag.

Should I repot right away or wait till it is done blooming? Is this a good candidate for S/H in primeagra (coarse grade from your store) or regular culture using CHC (medium size also from your store)? I have no good bark at the moment.

I also wonder whether a gritty mix (1/3 small bark, 1/3 turface or diatomaceous earth, and 1/3 granite grit) that is similar to bonsai mix is suitable for Paphs? I have a bunch of that for houseplants.

[RJSquirrel]

nice little maudie paph

they are grown so fast now in the sphagnum.check the roots indeed . if they are fine put it back in the pot and give it a hug.
I wouldnt use the bonsai mix myself it stays to wet most of the time IMO and I like to water my plants more often. Some Paphs like moist and some like to be drier but not wet...fine line between moist and wet I know...Growing these are fun too!! if this is your 1st expect a few more to find you and good luck

[PaphMadMan]

Either S/H or CHC mix should be a valid choice, properly managed. Even moisture, never dry or wet for more than a day. Just about nothing easier to grow than a Maudiae-type Paph.

[glitchathon]

great to hear these are not too hard to take care of! is it generally best to wait until there is new root growth before repotting or is it best to do it ASAP (especially with these TJ orchids which are often packed tight with sphag).

[RJSquirrel]

paphs dont mind having they bonnets lifted up to take a peek under the hood in fact in many cases its encouraged and not a bad idea.

you probably wont notice any new roots, but you might notice a new shoot or fan. anytime you feel comfortable is fine...no noticeable problems I wouldnt think too much about that..what you need is start searching for his buddy..orchids like to have buddies lots and lots of buddies

[glitchathon]

cool i will let it adjust for a week here and then repot next time i water.

can Paphs' buddies be Phals or do they like to be around their own kind? Paphs are hard to find around here!

[RJSquirrel]

any orchid will do, they just need orchid buddies
and its most amazing thing when you get them around each other. they get tangled up so fast it takes a wrench and 2 pry bars to get em loose

[Hedge]

RJ you are the most shocking enabler on the board!!!!