Chunky old Den Phal thriving in ... gravel?!?

[Fairorchids]

Orchids can be grown in (almost) anything, as long as you adjust your watering & fertizing schedule accordingly.

I recently received some Laelia anceps from Santa Barbara Orchid Estate, which were in plastic pots with all rocks (1"-1.1/2" size). They were doing fine, but to fit in with the rest of my collection, they are now in clay pots with a bark/charcoal mix. And, they are growing fine this spring.

[Irielicious]

Originally Posted by Fairorchids

Orchids can be grown in (almost) anything, as long as you adjust your watering & fertizing schedule accordingly.

I recently received some Laelia anceps from Santa Barbara Orchid Estate, which were in plastic pots with all rocks (1"-1.1/2" size). They were doing fine, but to fit in with the rest of my collection, they are now in clay pots with a bark/charcoal mix. And, they are growing fine this spring.

Mind BLOWN lol so what kind of gravel will work? I have pea gravel I bought for my succulents will that work? I'm so excited this will keep me from having to repot so often!!! Any info will be most helpful ty!!!

[Orchidbyte]

Originally Posted by Irielicious

Mind BLOWN lol so what kind of gravel will work? I have pea gravel I bought for my succulents will that work? I'm so excited this will keep me from having to repot so often!!! Any info will be most helpful ty!!!

I use 3/4" chunk gravel like would be used for roads and walking paths, I also put chunky pieces of styrofoam on bottom 1/3 of pot to decrease weight.

I do use pea gravel but mainly for seedlings and as a mix for Paphs. And other plants that like moisture but not wet feet.

[Irielicious]

Originally Posted by Orchidbyte

I use 3/4" chunk gravel like would be used for roads and walking paths, I also put chunky pieces of styrofoam on bottom 1/3 of pot to decrease weight.

I do use pea gravel but mainly for seedlings and as a mix for Paphs. And other plants that like moisture but not wet feet.

Wow nice!!! Should I give the gravel a good rinse? Also, can you use just pea gravel with Phalaenopsis? I only ask as you said you use it in a "mix". Thanks so much for taking the time to help me, I really appreciate it!