MOST IMPORTANT SPECIFIC CULTIVATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR PLEIONE

Temperature ; Most species and hybrids are frost resistant and withstand temperatures between minus 5 and plus 28 °C Except from a few autumn flowering species they do need a cold winter rest at temp’s between 0 and 5 °C for two to three months to get good results . They do not stand heat in summer , supply enough moisture at warm temp’s and if greenhouses get too warm , put them in a cool shady place outdoors .

Light ; One may give them full sunlight between November and February , and relatively cool shady conditions in growing stage, morning sun is beneficial though.

Humidity ; Critical is keeping plants dry in cold rest periods. As those plants are affected by monsoon rains in nature ,  they need abundant watering in peak summer . Watering need to be increased gradually as new growths start to develop . During growing season plants may not become dry , as the thin unbranched roots may be lost and will not be replaced afterwards !                     

Compost ; Very tolerant , most species do well with a compost of fine graded bark , pumice gravel or perlite and freshly fallen and cut  oak and beech- leaves, more or less equal parts . Providing good drainage , one can use some moss or sphagnum to make it more water retentive .A cover of some kind of living moss has proved very beneficial for sensitive species .

Repotting ; Yearly, or each two years , in winter or in February latest , just before growing starts .

Water quality ; Rainwater is advisable , otherwise good quality tap water low salt and chlorine poor .Good oxygenic water is essential .

Fertiliser ; Not before new roots are well developed, somewhere in June for most species. One may use slow release grains up to 10 grains for strong growing hybrids or a good quality chemical fertiliser dissolved in spraying water .Good results are achieved with adding  some fully decomposed manure to the potting mixes as well .