Ideal Ventilation by Fan???

[nhman]

May I propose perhaps a stupid question?
What is "ideal" ventilation. I just got a large new osscillating fan for my orchid room (OK it's a HUGH fan for the size of the room ) and even on the lowest setting there is very excellent air movement. Leaves have good movement in the breeze which I would quessimate roughly at about 5 + MPH when the fan is blowing directly at the plants.
When would one think that there is too much wind blowing? Is there harm from this, or just increased drying out of the media??
I grow many Catts, Zygos, and similar species in an intermediate temp. situation. Thanks for any and all feedback or information!!

[magicatt]

I think orchids like air movement, just put up a fan myself. They usually live on trees up in the branches where there is good air movement don't they? I think if you can keep up on the watering it was a good thing to do.

[cirillonb]

the term often used is "buoyant" for the air movement orchids prefer. I suspect 5 mph directly on the orchid is sort of a gale. Perhaps directing the fan toward the ceiling would get adequate air movement in the room.
Nick

[nhman]

Thanks Nick and Magicatt for your help. I have arrainged the fan upwards so that air is not blowing directly on the leaves.

[JCMAN]

@nhman You have an orchid room? Wow

[Ray]

The idea behind air movement is to prevent pockets of stagnant air.

In a home with power ventilation and less-than-oppressive humidity, it's pretty much a non-issue.

Overcrowd plants in a greenhouse - which seems to be the norm - and it's a different issue.