Does my slipper orchid (Paphiopedilum) need very warm temperatures to stay healthy?
Answer
Most orchids need a distinct fluctuation between day and night temperatures to successfully produce flowers.
- Warm-growing Paphiopedilum in the mottled-leaf and multiflora groups prefer day temperatures between 75 and 85°F., with night temperatures between 60 and 65°F.
- Cool-growing Paphiopedilum in the green leaf group prefer day temperatures between 70 and 80°F., with night temperatures between 55 and 60°F.
Lowering night temperature for several weeks can help to initiate flowering. For the multifloral group, a two month cool period at 50 to 60ºF. initiates flower spikes.
Learn more about caring for a slipper orchid (Paphiopedilum) in our Paphiopedilum Culture Guide.
Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service
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