Changing windows from woodenframe to PVC u

[Hedge]

I'm not sure that I'm asking this question in the right place, but my displays are on my window sills, and in the next month, we are replacing our windows with PVCu instead of the current softwood and leaky frames. Both of them have or will have double glazed units in them. We are also going from grid leading to plain panes.

What I am wondering is will the lack of drafts affect my growing of orchids? the new frames will have trickle vents.

Also, will the lack of leading make much difference to actual light levels?

I currently grow a range of Phals, Oncidium alliance intergenerics and Phal type Dendrobiums on or near to the windows. My Paphs are further back into the room.

[RosieC]

I grow next to uPVC windows with trickle vents in the top edge. Most of the windows have a net curtain between the window and the orchids.

I grow similar orchids and I've not found any problems from the windows. I have the trickle vents closed in the winter and open in the summer.

I don't think the leading would make that much difference to the light. The glass composition would make more difference and it's probably difficult to predict (do you know of any UV filter built into the glass or anything like that). I would watch how the plants respond to the light as we move into the spring to ensure you don't get more than expected, but I don't think you should have a problem.

[Hedge]

Thanks, Rosie. Do you use fans at all? I have never had to bother so far and don't want to start!

[RosieC]

I don't use any fans.

In the rooms that are in regular use I have no problem with air flow.

I have one room that we don't use much. We also have to keep the door shut while we are out and often forget to open it again. Originally when I put a couple of orchids on the windowledge I noted they were drying VERY slowly even in the summer. I was worried about air flow in that room.

However since i put more plants in the room I have to go in quite often to check on them and water then and I've noticed they seem to all be doing fine now and drying at the same rate as others arround the house.

[Hedge]

Ok I'll stop worrying about things that haven't happened yet!!