Pool Cage Light

[britbloke]

I'm trying to learn the basics of growing orchids in Florida as each season unfolds.

What level of light should I get inside a pool cage, fully exposed with no shade?

[jaxorchidman]

You might want to also ask this question in the FL orchid grower's 'social group'. I know a few people grow in their pool cages there.

[gnathaniel]

Just a quick nitpick, Josh, but can we keep the social groups for socializing and the general forums for orchid-growing info? Not everyone is a member of every social group and by holding culture discussions there we exclude many forum members. I believe when the social groups were started there was concern that they might draw valuable discussions away from the forums and diminish the value of OB as a whole. Thanks!

britbloke, a lot is going to depend on where your particular pool cage is located and how heavy the screening is. The only real way to determine light levels in your situation is to actually measure them at different times of the day and maybe year (though in FL you won't see as much variance as folks further north). A basic light meter costs about $30 and you can also use an SLR camera to get a good approximation of footcandles. I'll look around for some instructions on the latter and get back to you when I find a link.

--Nat

[Gin]

I think our moderator Sue aka cb 977 grows in that set up you might pm her to come to the thread ..

[britbloke]

Thanks everyone for channeling my inquiry and the ideas to home in on my light conditions.

[BobInBonita]

The pool cage (screen) is usually equivalent to about a 25% reduction in light when you meter it.

I understand Gnathaniels point, but sorta kinda disagree abouit the social group. To me if you want info about something that is pretty geographically unique, then the local group is a good spot to ask - just like a local club is good that way. When it is something general or when you want broad opinions, then the general forums are the best place. Florida is just sooo different from much of the country. Another good place is the outdoor growing forum.

[britbloke]

Thanks Bob, 25% is very helpful...