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Cypripedium Growth Cycle

New shoots typically burst into life in spring, forming a lush bouquet of bright green leaves after 3-5 weeks. Flowering usually extends from mid spring to mid summer, depending on species and locations. The foliage remains fresh-looking during the entire growing season before fading and disappearing in the fall. Cypripedium then enters a period of winter dormancy. Growth starts as the weather improves in early spring, influenced by increasing warmth and moisture. Over time, Cypripedium will multiply by rhizomes and by seed dispersal in ideal growing conditions and reward gardeners with ravishing exotic-looking flowers year after year.

Growing Cypripedium

Generally speaking, shady position but good light, wet conditions but good drainage, are the secrets to obtaining healthy and fine plants with rich roots.

Wild lady’s slippers have special requirements that can make them difficult to cultivate. Cypripedium hybrids are often easier to grow than most of the species.

Light needs. Lady’s slipper orchids are woodland plants. They usually grow in bright shade or dappled sunlight under tall trees. Although they do enjoy morning sun, midday sun should be avoided, and they should be exposed to only filtered sun in the afternoon. A very suitable place would also be on the north side of a building.

Soil needs. Plant in the cool part of your garden in raised beds of sand and loam or leaf-based compost. The soil needs to be well-aerated, fertile, leafy, humus-rich and drainage needs to be excellent.

Water needs. All temperate slipper orchids need adequate moisture during the growing season. The soil should never be soggy, nor should it dry out. After flowering, the plants will die back and watering can be reduced. Too much moisture during dormancy may lead to shoot rot.

Fertilizer. Fertilize regularly in spring using a 10-10-10 fertilizer at half the recommended strength. Do not fertilize at all during winter.

Mulch. Provide an annual winter mulch of leaf mould in the fall to prevent the soil from frost heaving. In spring when the new shoots start to appear, simply remove the mulch.

Planting. Fall is the best season for planting. Avoid planting your orchid very close to trees and bushes as their roots might compete with those of your orchids. Hold the rhizome so that it faces up and is 1 in. (2.5 cm) below the surface. Gently fill in around the roots and over the top of the bud with soil without compressing it, and water thoroughly. Do not fertilize right after planting.

Pests and disease. Keep an eye out for slugs.

Division. Cypripedium clumps should be divided every few years in order to keep them healthy.

Tip for reblooming. If your orchid is not blooming, try moving it to another cool location with a different exposure.

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