orchid potting mix question, please

[VickiC]

I repotted most of my orchids that were in the accident Sat. night (which I mentioned in my last post) in S/H, although there were some that I thought in advance that I would like to repot in my Better-Gro orchid mix that I had on hand (bark, charcoal, etc.) but I chose not to afterall. Anyway, I have heard in the past that one is supposed to soak a bark mix before using it, and I've also read not to. I may have done the wrong thing, but I did soak it. As I said, though, I did not use it, so I now have about 1 bag that has been soaked. My question is: if I were to dry it, would it be ok to use later or should I use fresh, new, dry mix? Once wet, I didn't know if it would make a difference or not. Also, please give me your thoughts as to whether it should be soaked or left dry before potting.
Thanks in advance,
Vicki

[Ross]

I would think that once dried back out it should store OK. I do this with mine on occasion.

[jkofferdahl]

I let the mix dry out completely and store it for the next use. It's not caused a problem in 30 years.

[VickiC]

I was hoping someone would tell me that it is ok to dry it out and use it later cuz I would be stuck with a bucket full of wet bark that I couldn't use, otherwise. So, thanks......it's drying as we speak.
Vicki

Originally Posted by jkofferdahl

I let the mix dry out completely and store it for the next use. It's not caused a problem in 30 years.

[masda]

Dry it out by all means if you are going to store it,and soak it for a few days before using it else it will not take up water under normal spraying conditions. I always add some lime to the bark when soaking it a small handful to a 10lt bucket as a sweetner.

[VickiC]

Thank you for your advice, Ross. I have it drying out now.vv

By the way, I just read your lighting question....awesome...."you go boy"
Vicki

Originally Posted by Ross

I would think that once dried back out it should store OK. I do this with mine on occasion.

[VickiC]

Thank you for your input. I did not know about adding lime, so once again, I learned something new....gr8.
Vicki

Originally Posted by masda

Dry it out by all means if you are going to store it,and soak it for a few days before using it else it will not take up water under normal spraying conditions. I always add some lime to the bark when soaking it a small handful to a 10lt bucket as a sweetner.

[jkhom]

This is the second time I've heard lime recommended. The first time was when one of my paphs was in trouble. My question is; what kind of lime do you use? I have garden lime that I use to keep my red hydrangeas red. Would that be suitable or should I get a differrent kind? Also, do I just sprinkle on top of the potting media or mix it in? Is lime good for all orchids? Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks.

[masda]

Garden lime is ok in small amounts, like all feeding of orchids you do it in moderation,once a month in the growing season I disolve a teaspoon of lime in with my feed and let it stand over night as it takes a while to desolve, this is a safer method than sprinkling over the surface of the potting mix as if you dump a lot in one spot you will do more harm than good,the lime I use is a granulated type and looks like salt crystals, check with your orchid supplier first.