Salep cultivation, from knowledge to harvest.

Soil requirements vary by orchid species. Well-aerated soil with suitable organic matter and no standing water is generally preferred. Species differ in their pH preferences. Soil analysis and a small trial are more useful than relying on a single general pH value.

Tubers are dormant in summer. In mild coastal areas, growth may begin in late August or early September; at higher elevations or in colder regions it may start later. Planting before sprouting is recommended. Timing should be adapted to the species and local climate.

The source describes a depth of about 4–5 cm. Spacing depends on growth habit and management. Trials have used 15 × 15 cm or 15 × 5 cm spacing; these are not universal prescriptions for every species and region.

Compacted soil should be aerated before planting. Beds approximately 1–1.5 metres wide and 15 cm high can support drainage and access. A slight slope helps remove excess water. Well-rotted manure may be considered where soil analysis identifies a need for organic matter.

Base irrigation on soil moisture and rainfall, rather than a fixed schedule. During dry periods, apply measured amounts to moisten the root zone. Drip irrigation supports control. Avoid standing water and persistently wet soil, which can increase fungal disease risk.

There is no single fertiliser programme suitable for all species and soils. The source reports that some chemical nitrogen applications did not benefit the orchids studied and could adversely affect yield or populations. Base fertilisation on soil analysis and trial new practices on a small area first.

Prepare a clean seedbed before planting. Hand weeding and careful mechanical control are options for small areas. Tubers and roots are near the surface, so deep hoeing can damage them. Control weeds before they shade the crop or set seed.

Timing depends on how the species produces new tubers. The source describes early flowering for species producing one new tuber and full flowering for some species producing several. Retain healthy planting material for sustainable cultivation.

Store planting tubers unwashed, with a little soil remaining. Reduce surface moisture for a few days in a ventilated, partly shaded place, then keep cool, dry and out of direct sun. The source reports that refrigeration or very cold storage caused rot and loss of viability in the species studied.

This treatment is not for planting tubers. Fresh tubers intended for flour are washed. The source describes boiling for an average of 6–10 minutes depending on dry matter content, followed by cooling and drying in a ventilated, partly shaded location.