Phals in the Kratky method

[katsucats]

I'm a chronic underwaterer. I just can't keep a schedule when it comes to watering plants. I've experimented with hydro where it's similar to S/H but I let the reservoir run nearly dry before I water, and moss, both to mixed results. But one thing that worked when I used to do it (but abandoned it for a bit because a gallon of water is too heavy) is the Kratky method.

To put it simply, I use a heavy duty 6 inch net pot with LECA, and set it over a crock pot. Why a crock pot? Because it fits perfectly under the net pot and no other reason. In fact, it's not ideal since it's heavy itself.

Then I fill it up half way with water, so it goes less than half way up the root system. So in the beginning, it's like 1/4 of the net pot up. But as the roots grow into the water, I could fill it up to an inch below the net pot.

And then I leave it alone for literally months. I just checked on a plant I had sitting in the kitchen for literally half a year since I watered it and sure enough, there are still thick, green roots sitting in half a tank of water. Tap water. Sure I see the salts building up on the LECA, but it hasn't bothered it.

Has anyone tried this nearly hands free way of growing orchids?