Bleach in humidity trays

[Phal grower]

So I got a little carried away with the bleach in my humidity tray. Now when I open my orchid enclosure I can smell a bleach odor. Is this a problem for orchids? I don't think bleach fumes would damage orchids but what do you think? Do any of you use bleach to control algae in humidity trays and if so how much do you need? Thanks all.

[Eyebabe]

I would probably dilute it a bit; I too have occasionally gone overboard but I put Physan in the humidity tray type water.
Nevertheless, it did not create a problem.

[Orchid126]

What might happen is what happened to me, salts started to build up and white/brown crusts started to form on the stones and sides of the trays. They didn't, however, bother the orchids in any way. Just made it difficult to scrape off at the end of the indoor season.

Perhaps a tablespoon to a gallon would do the trick.

[Merlyn]

All I do is scrub them out every month or so with a stiff dish-washing brush.

[quiltergal]

I do what Chryss does but I do it weekly. It's part of the watering routine. Probably why it takes me so long to get it done.

[PaphMadMan]

Bleach fumes shouldn't be a problem unless it is undiluted bleach in an unventilated area. A little vinegar added to the water and some ventilation will help clear the unpleasant smell faster.

Physan 20 would be a more pleasant alternative and stays active for a longer period of time.

[Shirley]

I used to have the problem of bleach building up crust on the tray sides. Now I use a little algaecide (the kind for swimming pools) instead of bleach and I do prefer it. I understand that the makeup is somewhat similar to physan which isn't available in Canada.

[Orchid126]

If you have a store nearby that carries aquarium supplies, you can find an algeacide there. Does not small as bad and is easier to use then bleach.