The Cypripedium Orchid... 
The Cypripedium is considered the easiest orchid to grow. This 
lovely orchid takes its name from the Greek, meaning “Venus- 
slipper.” All of its species can be identified by the pouch, or 
slipper-like lip of the flower. Many wild types, commonly known 
as “‘lady-slippers” are found in our woods and fields, but the 
cultivated varieties are sturdier, much larger and more dramatic. 
Flowers are long lasting. Colors in this orchid are breathtaking, 
varying from white through butter-yellow to deep purple-browns. 
The remarkable variations of markings make this an ever- 
interesting, ever-popular plant. Principal blooming seasons are 
Fall and Winter. 
If you could step into a house full of these lovely and charm- 
ing slipper orchids with their individual variations, you, too, would 
want to own a few plants. 
Cypripedium prices quoted in our catalog are based on 
flowering size plants in four-inch pots. 
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CULTURAL SUGGESTIONS FOR CYPRIPEDIUMS 
Contrary to popular belief, a wide 
variety of orchids will grow in the 
same enclosure. Cypripediums and 
Cattleyas are particularly good neigh- 
bors and most varieties will thrive un- 
der the same conditions. If space is 
available and the budget allows a sepa- 
rate enclosure, there are a few fancy 
touches that Cypripediums will enjoy. 
Osmundine is a standard medium 
for growing all varieties of Cypripe- 
diums. However, we are now using a 
potting mixture of 14 sand, 1% peat 
moss, and 14 fir bark, and are having 
good results. 
Light intensity should be the same 
as for Cattleyas — relaxing without be- 
ing depressing to the average human 
being. In cool, damp climates provide 
more sunlight than in hot, dry ones. 
The color of the leaves is a good indi- 
cation — dark green, too much shade; 
olive green, just right; yellow green, 
too much light. 
pea | ee 
Temperatures may run into the high 
nineties without damage but where 
possible 68 degrees to 80 degrees is 
better. Where low day temperatures 
prevail a night temperature of 50 de- 
grees to 55 degrees would be prefer- 
able. In warmer regions 60 degrees or 
a little higher is beneficial. 
Don't be afraid to let your Cypripe- 
diums dry at the roots for a short 
period, then water them thoroughly. 
Cypripediums enjoy a free circulation 
of air, but remember to keep the rela- 
tive humidity as near 60% as possible. 
If your plants have good root systems 
a light spray overhead will do no harm 
but it is better to let them dry before 
nightfall. The warm growing whites and 
mottled leaf varieties may be handled 
as other types but prefer a temperature 
five to eight degrees higher. 
Feeding Cypripediums is very bene- 
ficial during the growing season. Use 
fish emulsion or nitrogen fertilizers 
sparingly. 
