Pros/Cons of growing in rockwool

[shakkai]

I'm wondering what people's thoughts are on growing in rockwool. Does anyone have first hand experience that they could share? Specifically advantages vs. disadvantages and formulations of mixes based on rockwool?

Thanks for any advice you can give!

[Ray]

I tried rockwool a long time ago, and found it to be unacceptable.

However, that was before I realized just how important air flow is in the orchid-growing equation, so it may very well have been inorganic sphagnum!

If I was to try again, I'd go with cubes instead of strands, and I'd probably opt for about 33% hydrophilic type, max.

[shakkai]

Thanks Ray! Yes, the cubes do look like they would allow for the air flow while maintaining humidity around the roots. Thanks for the tip!

[slipperfreak]

I've found that rockwool builds up minerals VERY fast, especially when you use hard water. It needs to be leached frequently. However, the consistency of it is great for moisture-loving orchids like Phrags.

[shakkai]

Thanks, Joe! That is something that I will definitely keep an eye out for, as we do have hard water. I've been meaning to start using rainwater, so it looks like if I go the rockwool route, that will be a must.

Thanks for your comments - its really helpful!

[Rhonda_in_FL]

Odom's Orchids in Ft. Pierce used to use it I think. They grew the nicest plants. It holds too much water for outdoor Florida growers (IMO) as we get a month or so of solid rain every six months.