Some beginner questions about S/H

[DirtyCoconuts]

I apologize if these have been covered but I could not find them so I am posting some queries.

1) I have read that it is recommended to make the holes one inch from the bottom of the container. Is this only for a certain size of container? I have noticed that in a 32z soup container when I use the one inch rule, the top of the LECA is pretty dry. If I drill the hole one and 3/4 inches up, the top LECA is moist. Is there any reason not to raise the hole a bit?

2) I assume you do not want the roots in the water. Is this accurate? If so, how do you size the container based on the root mass and then prevent the roots from being in the lower portion. Worded differently, how far above the holes do you and LECA before you start planting?

3) if I am using some very short plants (rehab project) so I went with one wide shallower container. Here I notice that the change in the relationship between depth and surface area, it was drying out faster. Any guidance on the shape of the container vs the height of the res?

4) since it is semi hydro I assume that you want the res always topped off? Is this accurate? The ones I have outside are at about half full at the end of the day so I have been filling them up. The indoor ones dry at different rates but I am still keeping them all at full res. Is this proper vest practice or should I let it get more dry?