Paphiopedilum delenatii

Question

Please tell me how to growPaphiopedilum delenatii.—Jan Saliba

Paphiopedilum delenatii- photo © 2004 Greg Allikas

Answer

WhilePaphiopedilum delenatiiwas for many years considered difficult to grow, years and generations of selection of good-growing parental stock have led to this species being quite easy. The plants seem to respond well to a variety of conditions, but will grow well with other mottled-leaved paphiopedilums, or with the brachypetalum or parvisepalum types. As always, water low in salts is a must. Plants should be kept evenly moist, approaching dryness, and provided with moderate light as for phalaenopsis. As with all paphiopedilums,Paph. delenatiidoes best with a fertilizing regime of 1/4-strength balanced plant food applied every week. —Ned Nash