Cypripedium calceolus - Vitro seedlings (50 pieces)

Growing Cypripedium from in vitro rhizome.

When they leave the laboratory, young Cypripedium seedlings should be grown in mineral soil containing very little organic matter (acclimatisation substrate). The presence of large quantities of organic matter is strongly discouraged.

Young Cypripedium seedlings must also undergo vernalisation (cold period) before they can develop new leaves. It is important to store them for a period of 2 to 4 months (depending on the species) at a temperature of around 4°C or in a cold greenhouse (away from intense frost).

Leaf growth will begin in spring after the cold vernalisation phase.

It is advisable to grow young seedlings in a fairly large volume. For example, use a plastic or polystyrene crate (e.g. 30cm x 20cm x 15cm high) with drainage holes drilled in the bottom for excess water. Using a large volume allows you to maintain more stable growing conditions for the substrate (less temperature variation, higher humidity).

We recommend using pumice (vulca stone) as a substrate, but it is also possible to use other mineral substrates such as quartz or dolomite, or a mixture of fine mineral substrates (3 to 8 mm).

For species with a basic tendency, add 10% dolomite or crushed shells (mussels, oysters, etc.). For acidophilic species, add 10% pine bark or pine needles.

IMPORTANT

Cypripedium cannot be exposed to direct sunlight (at least between 10 and 17 hours) but will appreciate the morning or late afternoon sun.