paph armeniacum what to do with it?

[Mahon]

OK, so how does the plant get the nutrients that they need to support leaf growth and flower and whatever?

Also, is nitrate OK for other orchids? I know urea is not usable. Is ammoniacal nitrogen the only thing recommended?

A plant in cultivation doesn't HAVE to have fertilizer. Nutrients can be obtained in many ways, such as Julie suggested (egg shells, epsom salt, etc.). I like to use humus for my Paphiopedilum and Phragmipedium plants, which contain symbiotic fungi and other nutrients. I also like to water some of my orchids with algae.

I've read about Xavier but I don't know much about his reseach. He is also a young orchid hobbyist in Paris I believe

XPGDL did some research on coconut milk being benificial for orchid seedlings (natural endosperms, mentioned in 'Orchid Fever')... also, he has had many analysis done upon lime, fertilizer, and media. He has also done the original research upon the detrimental effects of using coconut pieces as media for Paphiopedilum (the salts aren't the actual issue...)

-Pat