Basic cultivation of Dactylorhiza.
There are a number of species of dactylorhiza that will grow in various garden situations. Some are British native species whilst others hybrids of continental species that are often very garden worthy. Each has its own requirements regarding soil type and climatic requirements.

Dactylorhizas are a winter dormant species growing a single flower spike from the top of a finger shaped tuber in the spring and early summer. Multiplication in the garden in normally by the regeneration of two tubers from the current seasons tuber.

There are a small number of Mediterranean species that will not grow in the garden as they will not tolerate the wet British climate.

Planting.
Dactylorhiza should be planted either in the early autumn (when dormancy starts) or early in the spring, just before the tubers begin to shoot.

In the garden, select a suitable site for the tubers you have. Dig a hole one and half times the length of the tuber and 10 cm wide. Loosen the soil you have removed. Hold the tuber in the hole with the growing point 2 cm below the surface and fill the hole with the soil.
Water in if the soil is dry.
Plant in 3/5’s about 15 cm apart to allow the establishment of a clump after 3 or 4 years. When planting into a lawn, make a vertical slit longer than the tuber and 3 cm wide. Lower the tuber into the slit to the same depth as for the garden planting and gently close the slit.
For pot growing a compost mix should be made up; consisting of loam, fine grit, perlite, composted bark and dolomitic limestone to alter the pH. Use a pot that allows for the multiplication of the clump.

Feeding.
Do not feed dactylorhiza. Soft growth tends to occur if the soil is too rich.

Division.
Garden or pot clumps may be divided in the early autumn. Use a fork to lift the whole clump. Gently tap the clump on the ground to knock off the soil. You will then have a number of individual tubers (they are not joined together.) Clean off rubbish material and replant.

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