root sticky?

[vyltan]

well as a new member my suggestion may be very bold and 'out of order', but with my 'fresh eyes' on the board it may have some merit...i read maybe 20 threads on the subject here and on the AOS forums about root care and i think it would be less painfull to look around if we had a sticky with the input of all experienced growers on how to manage roots. For my 2 scents am linking what I think are the scientific grounds to root rot:AOS Message Board

[isurus79]

How does one adhere to the guidelines of, "keep moist but not wet" ? If one chooses a very porous mix, then the roots will not stay wet too long but they won't be moist for long, either. On the other hand if one chooses a less porous mix (eg, smaller sized bark), then the root will be "kept moist" for longer periods but they will also have a longer period of being "wet". This goes back to the start of this thread, in which I ponder, how does one adhere to the watering recommendations of "keep moist but not wet" in some way that makes not only practical sense (as evidenced by the plants thriving), but also makes theoretical sense ? Thanks, Norm

Norm,
After reading that AOS thread (and deciding that I did not want to sign up to another internet forum), I have to say that I really believe you are over thinking or at least over analyzing this watering situation. For example, you ask how "keep moist but not wet" can make both practical and theoretical sense. With orchids, there is only practical sense. Theoretical sense works great for philosophers and quantum physicists, but with orchids, theories dont hold a flame to practicality unless they are actually tried and proven, at which time they become practical!! "Keep moist but not wet" can be translated as "Water, dry, repeat!" Though I sound a bit facetious right now, I mean no disrespect!! The only way to truly understand "keep moist but not wet" is grow your own orchids under the conditions you are able to provide and figure it out for your self!! Or just change the verbage to "water, dry, repeat!!" I hope this helps and I look forward to seeing pics of your 'chids!!

[Ross]

Originally Posted by isurus79

Norm,
After reading that AOS thread (and deciding that I did not want to sign up to another internet forum), I have to say that I really believe you are over thinking or at least over analyzing this watering situation. For example, you ask how "keep moist but not wet" can make both practical and theoretical sense. With orchids, there is only practical sense. Theoretical sense works great for philosophers and quantum physicists, but with orchids, theories dont hold a flame to practicality unless they are actually tried and proven, at which time they become practical!! "Keep moist but not wet" can be translated as "Water, dry, repeat!" Though I sound a bit facetious right now, I mean no disrespect!! The only way to truly understand "keep moist but not wet" is grow your own orchids under the conditions you are able to provide and figure it out for your self!! Or just change the verbage to "water, dry, repeat!!" I hope this helps and I look forward to seeing pics of your 'chids!!

Thanks Steve. I didn't respond at first because I thought: "How could we ever make absolutes, or even solid guidelines regarding watering?" In your part of the world, I am sure watering is based on rainy season-dry season outdoors. In my dry indoors environment, watering is something else. In the basement in my orchidarium at constant 90-99% humidity, I rarely water - and then only the ones in the shadow zone from the misting nozzles. Too many variables to consider. Just my

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[vyltan]

ooooooooook...i put the link to the AOS thread for the very interesting input on root breathing and stagnant water that prevent that, cause root death and consequent rotting. Not for the obsession of watering techniques of the thread instigator. Please remember my query about a root sticky. Not about watering techniques.....