Hot weather, to bare root or not to bare root?

[Charles]

I have been having a difficult time deciding whether or not to "break the rules" concerning vandas and potting medium.
I live in a dry hot area and the summers here are brutal. The humidity is not always high enough for the heat.
Do I leave Vandas bare or not? I have some already in medium and I just purchased two well established bare plants. What to do?
I realize the possible drawbacks, if not outright dangers of using medium and over watering, but the heat and dry is no small concern either.
Everyone says no to using medium for Vandas. What are some thoughts here?

[cb977]

Hi Charles,
What I've come to understand is that vandas need lots of water...with a quick dry out. Some of our club members have large chunks of charcoal in the vanda basket but no more than that. Vandas (and anything mounted) are what I consider "high-maintenance". The rewards are worth the extra effort...IF having the time to mist them at least once a day is available.

In general, I think people need to consider the time they have available a major part of their growing conditions list.

[Miyuki]

Hi,
I live in the opposite environment, with cold winters that require lots of heating that dries everything out. My Vanda is doing well hanging bare root in a slat basket. I lined the bottom of the basket with large Dolomite stones that hold moisture. As heat passes through the stones, warm humidity is created. I mist everyday in the morning, and give her a good soaking on the weekend. Summers are a lot easier for me.

[Miyuki]

Oops, I meant to write Diatomite, not dolomite.

[Charles]

Thanks everyone.

[justatypn]

I grow my vanda's indoors and have one in a slat basket the other was yes was in charcoal. Was not impressed with the charcoal, after taking the vanda out of the pot, noticed less healthy root system. Yep, they like to be barefoot. I water mine daily as well as a misting and seem to be doing well.

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