Phal - advices about mutiple problems

[Dalachin]

Originally Posted by Franzwdk

Your explications are very clear and let me know how to adapte my way of culture.
What do you think about automatic spray/fogger in order to have regular water and dry periode ( exemple: Intelligent Reptile Fogger Terrariums Humidifier Electronic Timer Automatic Mist | eBay Could it be a good way to have regular watering and drying periodes? It could create an athmosphere closer natural conditions. I never seen litterature on web that deal with this subject.

Automatic mist systems are great for mounted phals. This type of culture tries to mimic natural conditions. But it is a lot of expense and effort, and most phals, especially modern hybrids, grow best in pots with bark or spagnum, given the right temperatures and watering schedule. I have some in semi-hydro and those do well too, once transitioned and kept warm. I have avoided pure water culture because there is little evidence that this is better long-term for phals, and I am hoping to keep mine happy for years.

[Waterdog111]

Not sure yet how many use this but I am switching a lot of my orchid’s medium over to red scoria(lava rock). This medium doesn’t deterate as it gets older and I believe it may be a bit heavier to balance out a top heavy plant. It also retains moisture for a time,at the same time not too much. Well anyway it new to me to, and I will know soon how well it’s going to work for me on different types of orchids.
Good luck with yours, also welcome to the board.:goodluck

[Kittyfrex]

Originally Posted by Dalachin

Automatic mist systems are great for mounted phals. This type of culture tries to mimic natural conditions. But it is a lot of expense and effort, and most phals, especially modern hybrids, grow best in pots with bark or spagnum, given the right temperatures and watering schedule. I have some in semi-hydro and those do well too, once transitioned and kept warm. I have avoided pure water culture because there is little evidence that this is better long-term for phals, and I am hoping to keep mine happy for years.

You forgot to mention to mention that mounted plants need superb ventilation, even more so when you start getting their leaves and stem wettish.

[Roberta]

Originally Posted by Waterdog111

Not sure yet how many use this but I am switching a lot of my orchid’s medium over to red scoria(lava rock). This medium doesn’t deterate as it gets older and I believe it may be a bit heavier to balance out a top heavy plant. It also retains moisture for a time,at the same time not too much. Well anyway it new to me to, and I will know soon how well it’s going to work for me on different types of orchids.
Good luck with yours, also welcome to the board.:goodluck

Just a note of caution here... repot only when plants are growing roots. Also, don't succumb to the temptation to repot all at once. Orchids grow slowly, so you won't know if this (or any other change) is an improvement for 6 months to a year. Patience...

[Waterdog111]

Thank you much, and rest asured I intend to take every bit of your advice as I always consider it of much value. And from all who have much more experience than I do.
Thanks again!
Oh yea, I did put one of my three little new kekiis in the scoria, (not many pieces needed here. They are dendrobium
Loddigisii