Changing from Bark To Hydroton

[1buzz]

I have just repotted a Cattleya that had been 100 % in bark. I put it in a hydro net pot 6” in diameter x 4 1/2” in depth with 100 % Hydroton after I cleaned the Hydroton foe 24 hours . It has no reservoir as the water goes in and out at the bottom of the pot after all the Hydroton has gotten wet. Is this OK? How often should I water it ? Does this action (no reservoir with Hydroton) have a name. I think that if it had a reservoir it would be called semi-hydroponic. I don’t mind watering everyday if necessary. . I love the idea of using the Hydroton versus the Bark as the Hydroton is reusable , you don’t have to repot it as often and there is less likelihood of the roots to rot. I am planning on repotting all my Orchids that have been in bark after they have bloomed which are Cattleya, Cymbidium, and Phalaenopsis . Is there any thing I ought to know or is there anything I ought to do or not do? When it comes to Orchids I am a new boy in town.

[psyc1210]

Water it as you see fit. I have ALL my orchids that are in pots, in Aliflor, and they get watered somewhere between every 3 days, and once per week. It just depends on the heat, humidity, and evaporation. I have them in clear pots, so I can see condensation.

What I have planted in Aliflor is mainly Phalaenopsis, some from the Cattleya alliance, and a Miltoniopsis. I'd say that 90% of my orchids are doing absolutely wonderful since being switched to the aliflor...there are a couple of sulkers. Many of mine have grown new roots like nuts since being switched.

[jay]

If there is no reservoir then you will need to water multiple times a day. True hydroponics works this way. Basically you would set up a pump with a timer to create an ebb and flow. Hydroton has great water wicking ability, but will dry out quickly if there is not a continuous supply of water.

[psyc1210]

I do not have reservoirs, and I do not have to water multiple times per day. I actually just watered today, and I believe it was about a week since last time I watered. None of my orchids are suffering bc of lack of water, everyone is doing well.

[psyc1210]

My first orchid AFTER aliflor

[jay]

I it is probably due to my dry air. I have little to no humidity. I didn't think of that until I just looked at your location. My bad.

[1buzz]

Thanks psyc1210 that is about how often I water anyway on my Bark plants which is twice a week in the Winter and every other day in the spring and summer .my biggest worry is over watering the Cattleyas. A lot of folks combine sphagnum mose in with the Hydroton with regard to their Catalleyas.

[janet_a]

i know a commercial guy who grows some of his plants in straight LECA--and some in pea gravel, even. *but* he has a GH with an auto watering system, so he can water frequently, and he has perfect humidity.