Cyp candidum - pH of Fen Meadow?

[0rch1dman]

I have a great fascination with Cyps as they were the first 3 species of orchids that I ever "discovered" in the wild: candidum, reginae, and parviflorum. I'm still looking for kentuckiense and acaule!

Anyway, I have collected a bunch of epiphytes and would like to try my hand at Cyp. candidum. Of course, it naturally occurs in fen meadows which will require alkaline soil. So, 2 questions really: What type of medium should I use and how do I control the pH to keep it slightly alkaline?

Thanks everyone for your advice.

Pedro

[the dragonn]

you could try using an inert medium, but buffer your water using that stuff keepers of cichlids use. It raises the pH to alkaline levels.

[bc_bareroots]

you could try using an inert medium, but buffer your water using that stuff keepers of cichlids use. It raises the pH to alkaline levels.

That's very interesting. I've never thought to adjust the ph of the water in order to adjust the ph of medium. It seems straight forward, but does it work?

From my aquarium days:

Raise Ph: baking soda
Lower Ph: lemon juice or vinegar


BC