| I have all of my orchids in S/H. I love it. I have trouble keeping bark moist enough because my air is very dry here in the desert. By switching to S/H it helps with the relative humidity. I believe that it also helps keep my orchids cool with evaporative cooling, which is important since we keep our home at 80F in the summer.
Even though it helps with preventing overwatering, there are some important culture notes to remember.
Air flow is the key. The whole reason that S/H works is that there is a fresh oxygen exchange over the roots. This prevents anaerobic bacteria (fungus, rot) to begin growing and allows for maximum uptake of water and nutrients.
When watering pour the water in fast enough to fill the container and then drain the excess. This will help prevent a mineral salt build up. It will also help flush any impurities out. If you only top off then you will have to do a clean flush regularly or you will get a heavy build up from the fertilizer.
Container size is very important. You do not want a container that is too tall. The bottom of the roots should sit about an inch above the drainage holes. This will allow for a proper amount of liquid to reach the top through wicking. If this distance is to far then the roots will dry up and suffer.
Fertilizer is important. There are a lot of theories for this one so I will just mention what I use. Keep in mind that others prefer to switch between "growth" and "bloom" fertilizers. I have recently begun feeding a MSU type fertilizer with every watering. I do this so I don't have to remember which orchid gets what and to prevent having that many different fertilizers to deal with. I like the studies that MSU did showing that a well balanced fertilizer is better than using "boosters".
Preparation of the LECA is important as well. You don't want to just take the LECA out of the bag and pot a plant in it. You need to make sure that you rinse it very well and soak it for 24 hours before using. Some people will soak it in a Epsom Salt and Calcium Nitrate. Some will even add some rooting hormones to the presoak. I personally just clean very well and soak in pure water and worm tea over night.
Hope this helps anyone with any questions.
Jay  |