Started to get serious about orchids

[Cheddarbob14]

About 2 months ago I had 4 phals and a paph. I've since adopted 2 phals in really poor shape, 2 in bloom from english gardens, 1 blooming size and another a bit younger from porters orchids, and a mixed bag of 5 various young plants from carter and holmes (online). Reverse osmosis setup will be here tomorrow (hard or salt softened water were my only real options w/out). After a long overdue vacation starting this weekend w my wife and kids, I'll be recreating a very unique bakers rack I found online that will be customized into my orchid display/growing area. Will be adding t5 lights (for supplemental light and to show off my collection) and incorporating humidity trays. Pretty sure I may be in over my head a bit . Will post a pic and a more detailed description of my plants when the rack is done!

[Leafmite]

Looking forward to seeing the set up!

[gngrhill]

Also looking forward to pictures of your set up

[Optimist]

It is kind of a learning curve. My only advice, I wish I knew then what I know now type of thing was that (with the exception of phrags and other specialized orchids) too much watering can kill more orchids faster than anything else.

[Cheddarbob14]

Thanks for the tip, I did go for a slightly "dryer" medium w everything (considering almost everything was potted in sphagnum moss only). I got the cedar/perlite combo from carter and holmes, and blended that w either moss or bark on a plant by plant basis. I also got the dual O2 pots from repotme for everything. Love the convenience of being able to lift the basket portion out to feel the bottom of the medium.