Phragmipedium kovachii (‘Giant Purple’ x ‘Goliath’) J113 Flask Mini

Description

A flask of 12 or more Phragmipedium kovachii, probably the largest flowering Phragmipedium species from the cloud forests of Peru. They’re not terribly difficult to grow from flask if you follow some simple rules. Do not allow the potting mix to completely dry. They can tolerate it as large seedlings, but they will hate you for it. The species is really well suited to hydroponics or ebb-flow culture. Some people sit the pots in water, they will grow like this, but results aren’t as good as fresh moving water. If you don’t mind watering regularly, you can also overhead water. You will need to be careful with this method in winter as water sitting in the growths for hours on end can cause rot of new leaves. Various potting mixes work. I’ve successfully used 10-12mm pine bark with some perlite and shell grit. If you use an organic mix that can acidify, be sure to add something like shell grit to keep the mix pH high, as this species is found on limestone cliffs and resents being in a mix that is too acidic. You can use inorganic mixes like scoria or expanded clay balls also, but you’ll need to maintain hydration with these as they don’t stay damp like bark. I use a top dressing of moss, but you don’t have to. I find it’s good for drier mixes and environments to keep the delicate root tips from damaging wind. You should note that this species is not a hot grower like other Phragmipedium, and has a definite preference for cooler conditions. They grow really well as indoor plants under LED lighting where the temp range is 11°C – 30°C. They will certainly tolerate temperatures outside of this. I have had them growing outside down to 2°C and up to 40°C, but for optimal growth, you should aim for 11°C – 30°C. As with other Phragmipedium, regular weak fertiliser in the water is beneficial since the plants can grow very rapidly in good conditions. While the plants do like good bright light, keep your seedlings somewhat shadier until they have at least doubled in size.