Phrag potting medium
 

I pot my Phrags in rockwool cubes with some bark on the top to prevent moss growing. I have heard that some people pot theirs in Seramis. Anyone got experience of potting Phrags in Ceramis?

Seramis or Ceramis? I have never heard of this medium but would be interested in getting details about it as well.

They are clay pellets popular in Europe I believe.

It is SERAMIS and yes, it is tiny terra-cotta pelets like fine gravel. They hold moisture very well and let the roots explore easily while letting air through the mix. I use them for Cypripedums mixed with a little loam with great success.
Richard

I grow all my Phrags in clay balls using the semi hydroponic method. They love it and grow like weeds, and they just keep blooming for me.

Marilyn

That's great. I'll give it a try because rockwool seems to get stale quite quickly even if mixed with perlite or bark.
Richard

I agree with Grandma M. I've found that the best root growth for phrags is with S/H.

OK, can you describe for me exactly what you mean by "semi-hydroponic"?
I understand hydroponic, but not clear about what the half way house is.
Richard

easy... same as hydroponic, but using 50% of the water :)

just kidding... have a look at this website: All about Semi-Hydroponics

That is really helpful, thanks.
in 2010 I have to go on a long trip for 6 weeks or so, and with two greenhouses of nearly 600 orchids and nobody to call upon for attention I am exploring every technique. My absence is in July/August in the UK too - not ideal!
One greenhouse is entirely Odontoglossum types so will be left open and the other is everything else which is closed. Mist sprayers keep the air moist and I think that an overhead drench every 5/6 days early in the morning might be sufficient.
The semi-hydroponic route also looks to be an option for some.