Quote:
Originally Posted by AnitadeWaard
Thanks again Roberta, that does help me to understand these interesting creatures! I set up a humidifier and a fan, but I see how the humid air doesn't necessarily get into the roots if they are in pots... I'll keep an eye on them and move into the open air if they don't seem to be thriving.
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They actually do get humid air in the pots... that's why one uses bark rather than dirt. There are lots of air spaces. When you water, the water flows through (pulling air behind it) and wets the surface of the bark. As that water evaporates, there's plenty of humidity in the pot. That's why the ''pot within a pot" allows root growth - the roots get wet (they have a spongy coating called velamin that holds some water) the space between the pots provides air, and bingo, humid air and happy roots.
The humidifier really isn't necessary. The fan... creating gentle air movement is helpful, helps that evaporation process and also tends to reduce problems with insects like scale and mealybugs.
Orchids that need more moisture can be potted in small bark, those (like the Cattleya group) that need to dry out, larger bark. That way, with a mixed collection, all can be watered the same and each gets the effect that they want.
Hybrid Mode
