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Repotting
Paphiopedilum - Transplanting into Hydroponics
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| Repotting
Paphiopedilum? Transplanting Paphiopedilum into Hydroponics is a
natural transition for this type of orchid. Unlike
most
orchids which live in the wind and bright light of the tree tops,
Paphiopedilum live in the quiet shade of the forest floor. Their roots
ramble through the moist humus which never really dries out. Our
Hydroponic System simulates these conditions perfectly! Paphs love
Hydroponics. Paphiopedilums are
one of the easiest orchids to transfer to Hydroponics. As with any
orchid. the best time for transplanting is after all the blooms have
faded. |
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| | 1.
We
always start by rinsing LECA pebbles with clear water to wash away the
dust from shipping. Then soak pebbles overnight in a solution of 2-3
TBS of K-L-N Rooting Solution per gallon of water. KLN promotes new
root growth while resisting disease.
Save soaking solution for watering new transplant later. |
| | 2. Carefully
remove the plant from its grow
pot. Squeezing sides of grow pot several times will help loosen potting
mix. |
| | 3. Carefully
remove all the old potting mix from the roots. Be careful -
try
not to break any roots. Paphiopedilum roots are long
and
hairy - they look like spider legs. |
| | 4.
Wash
roots thoroughly. Notice
Paph's don't have a complex root system. So
don't worry if your plant doesn't have many roots. |
| | 5. Before
adding pebbles, carefully arrange roots around base of culture pot.
Postion plant and fill culture pot with pebbles. Plant
slightly
deeper than with traditional mixes for better stability. If plant seems
loose (or ant roots are showing), dump out everything and start over.
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| | 6.
Firmly
pack down pebbles to eliminate any air gaps. |
| | 7.
Insert water gauge and place culture pot into decorative container.
There's your new plant. It's going to love its new home! (We
don't
recommend transplanting when in flower, but Paph's don't seem to mind
at all.) |
| go
to: After
Repotting Paphiopedilum | |