Question on watering using S/H

[syndywindy]

I have moved several of my orchids to S/H. A couple seem to be using up almost all the water in the resevoir very fast. I am flushing with water every other day on these 2 plants. Is this normal? Is this a good sign that its adapting to the new conditions? All the sothers seem to be fine, I'm watering them every 4-5 days. What do you all think?

[jay]

Did you soak the LECA for at least 24 hours? If not the LECA is draining the water very fast now as it soaks it up. It will slow down soon. You will also use more water in the summer than in the winter due to evaporation.

[kmarch]

What kind of orchids are they?

[patticake]

Some orchids are heavier drinkers than others. As Kevin asked, what type are they?

[syndywindy]

The 2 in question are cattleya's. The LECA probably soaked about 12 hours. I flushed them early this am and at this time they seem to be ok. So maybe not soaking it long enough was the reason. Thanks everyone!

[vcuchick]

Originally Posted by syndywindy

I have moved several of my orchids to S/H. A couple seem to be using up almost all the water in the resevoir very fast. I am flushing with water every other day on these 2 plants. Is this normal? Is this a good sign that its adapting to the new conditions? All the sothers seem to be fine, I'm watering them every 4-5 days. What do you all think?

Good question! I'm having the same issue! thanks for thinking of it! My LECA soaked for 48 hours before I used it but I'm running through it just as fast...I'm hoping it's only because my plants are brand new to S/H...

[LouisW]

Unless a plant is well established in S/H I dont think it is simply "drinking" it. Perhaps your resevoir is too small. I generally have to refill mine every few days. they would be totally empty in a week.

[janet_a]

i top mine off in the middle of the week. as the LECA ages, it wicks up less water. your reservoirs won't dry out as quickly.