If a lady's slipper orchid appears in the garden, its floral display greatly enhances the gardener's reputation. In order for the lavish blossom to develop in all its splendour, the ideal location is important. You can read here under which conditions a Cypripedium meets all expectations in the field.
Which location is optimal for a lady's slipper orchid?
The ideal location for a lady's slipper orchid should be partially shaded, without blazing sun at midday and with temperatures between 0 and 30 degrees Celsius. The soil should be humus, loose, well-drained and with a pH value not exceeding 6.5.
The best light and temperature conditions
The majority of wild species and natural hybrids thrive in the protection of forests in the rather cool regions of the northern hemisphere. Therefore, assign a hardy lady's slipper orchid a location with these light and temperature conditions:
- Partially shaded location, without blazing sun at midday
- No temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius in summer
- In winter temperatures around freezing point for at least 2 months
Please avoid a place in the immediate vicinity of trees and bushes. The terrestrial orchid cannot cope with this root competition. However, the beauty of the flowers has nothing against being associated with ferns.
The optimal soil
Combine a humus-rich, well-drained soil condition with the ideal light and temperature conditions. The lady's slipper orchid prefers to extend its roots in loose, fresh soil with a pH value not exceeding 6.5.
