Char-broil Lava Rocks for a Gas Grill for Orchids?

[Laserbeak]

Are these OK to use as orchid media? I went to a store where I had bought volcanic lava for plants before but they had sent it all back to the warehouse and are already putting up Christmas decorations! They said I could order it and I did but when it came it was not labeled for plants, it was Char-broil brand lava rocks meant for use in gas grills. Do they add any nasty chemicals to that stuff or is it really the same thing just marketed for a different use?

Basically, would this be safe to use with orchids? I didn't buy it, but for future reference it would be good to know.

[AnonYMouse]

If it hasn't already used for the grill, you can use it. I use it to fill up pot space. I let roots climb over and around them. Break them up with a hammer (place the rocks in a bag so the bits don't go flying) for smaller pieces.

[Silje]

Originally Posted by Laserbeak

Are these OK to use as orchid media? I went to a store where I had bought volcanic lava for plants before but they had sent it all back to the warehouse and are already putting up Christmas decorations! They said I could order it and I did but when it came it was not labeled for plants, it was Char-broil brand lava rocks meant for use in gas grills. Do they add any nasty chemicals to that stuff or is it really the same thing just marketed for a different use?

Basically, would this be safe to use with orchids? I didn't buy it, but for future reference it would be good to know.

I'm going hunting for these this weekend. It's impossible to get hold of lava rock as a growth medium here in Namibia, but we do like our BBQs.

[Bloomin_Aussie]

It's very good stuff. Full of all sorts of micro nutrients.

[Vanda lover]

Here they sell lave rock as a mulch for landscaping. it works great for s/h

[kindrag23]

What kind of brand was this? We still have bbq's going here I could so use this!

[Vanda lover]

It is called "mountain Magic' That particular brand may not be available to you, but many garden centres carry lava rock. I'm pretty sure that it is cheaper than the barbecue kind.

[kindrag23]

I will have to look into this! Thanks!

[Vanda lover]

I wash them thoroughly and boil them. In our climate we end up with ferns and moss growing out of the s/h pots. My phrag sure does love growing in s/h lava rock.

[kindrag23]

Hmmm...I dont grow s/h have not made the step there yet..but I can see wjere it would come in handy with filling up my bulbo pots..good air flow, and added weight in the bottom. I like this idea even more.