hydroton vs. prime agra?

[Ranchnanny]

So far I have been lucky not having any algae growing or tipping containers over BUT I am sure it will happen at some point

Sheridan

[Palito]

Originally Posted by orchidjunky

found a store that sells hydroton and was curious what are the advantages of using this (and disadvantages) vs. prime agra?

in my setup, Hydroton wicks less water (or dries faster?) than Prime Agra. Using the same pots,, the prime agra stays moist further from the reservoir than hydroton.

[Ray]

Orchidjunky -

Yes, I feed at every watering - and have been doing so for at least ten years. By using a relatively dilute fertilizer solution (125ppm N) and filling the pot rapidly to the top, the solution has the capability of rapidly dissolving any buildup that occurs, although I will tell you that with my watering frequency and humid greenhouse, I don't get that much.

As to "when to water", there is no simple answer. My collection includes stuff in S/H, pots of organic media, baskets, EpiWeb, mounted, etc., and I water everything whenever anything needs it. This time of year, that means a heavy misting almost daily (unless it's going to be rainy and gray, like today), and heavy watering a time or two a week.

Keep in mind that there's more to consider than merely how much liquid is in the reservoir: As the plants respire (through their roots) and absorb nutrients from the solution (each element at a different rate), the chemistry in the pot changes. That means that watering not only refills the volume, but it restores the preferred chemistry, which is a significant benefit to the plant. If the plant is established in s/h culture, the as-watered conditions and those a few days later are very nearly the same, so it's not a problem from a moisture perspective. What that means is that the best suggestion about watering is "as frequently as you can- or are willing to, and as much as possible before the reservoir is empty".

I know that doesn't narrow it very much, but if you take the time to consider the consequences of your regimen, each individual can deal with it.

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[orchidjunky]

Originally Posted by Ray

Orchidjunky -

Yes, I feed at every watering - and have been doing so for at least ten years. By using a relatively dilute fertilizer solution (125ppm N) and filling the pot rapidly to the top, the solution has the capability of rapidly dissolving any buildup that occurs, although I will tell you that with my watering frequency and humid greenhouse, I don't get that much.

As to "when to water", there is no simple answer. My collection includes stuff in S/H, pots of organic media, baskets, EpiWeb, mounted, etc., and I water everything whenever anything needs it. This time of year, that means a heavy misting almost daily (unless it's going to be rainy and gray, like today), and heavy watering a time or two a week.

Keep in mind that there's more to consider than merely how much liquid is in the reservoir: As the plants respire (through their roots) and absorb nutrients from the solution (each element at a different rate), the chemistry in the pot changes. That means that watering not only refills the volume, but it restores the preferred chemistry, which is a significant benefit to the plant. If the plant is established in s/h culture, the as-watered conditions and those a few days later are very nearly the same, so it's not a problem from a moisture perspective. What that means is that the best suggestion about watering is "as frequently as you can- or are willing to, and as much as possible before the reservoir is empty".

I know that doesn't narrow it very much, but if you take the time to consider the consequences of your regimen, each individual can deal with it.

Ray thanks for your imput! I have transferred a few of my "experimentals" (i.e. orchids im not so attached to) into this form of culture and am kinda hoping things go well. I do not have a greenhouse all my orchids are in a west facing window and have thrived there for about 6 months now despite the cooler san francisco weather. I'm sure some of my orchids will sulk after this transplant. (I'm also kinda using this as a way to wean my collection since I don't have the heart to throw away plants!)

I read somewhere that it is "better" to water plants in s/h frequently... is the reason that you mentioned.. the reason?

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[orchidjunky]

BTW how do you give a resting period to nobile dendrobiums?!

[knight48]

WOW!
I'm new to Orchids but after reading these posts here I know which direction I am going to go now.
I've been pondering lately which medium to use on a regular basis so I know now I am going with Rays Prime.
I am going to place an order tonight Ray but does the Prima come with any instructions as far as soaking it before using it?
Can you let me know what you recommend for this?
Thanks folks... Thanks Ray

Forgot to ask but what kind should I get How do you decide? LOL
SHoot! One other thing.. what is LECA? Is it this Prime stuff?

Pete

[orchidjunky]

Originally Posted by Ranchnanny

So far I have been lucky not having any algae growing or tipping containers over BUT I am sure it will happen at some point

Sheridan

Sorry if this question is too long to answer but.. out of curiosity how long ago did u do the switch to hydroton and.. how long before you started seeing new roots/growths/spikes?? I know this will vary from person to person but i'm more curious about the ones grown not in a controlled environment (on a windowsill) not in a Greenhouse or Orchidarium?

[Ranchnanny]

Orchidjunky, well lets see I did the 'chids' in the orchidarium first then all of the rest. So its been a couple of weeks between the time I did the orchidarium 'chids' then the ones outside the orchidarium.

That was about 2.5 months ago and they are showing new leaves and roots. I even repotted when they were still in flower. Didn't loose any flowers My Dens aren't showing any growth but the Phals. are. Tempermental I guess.

Sheridan

[Ray]

OK, how many times do we need this discussion? The medium is one of the least consequential parts of orchid culture!

The medium does not determine the length of time it takes a plant to start growing. That is determined by the health of the plant, where it is in its growth cycle, the temperature, the light level, and even the humidity, to some degree.

If all of those are correct, the plant will grow and its roots will adapt to the environment of the pot no matter what the medium, as long as it's not damaging in some way.

EDIT: I'm sorry that came off so belligerently!

[orchidjunky]

Hmm its day 2 and my Burrageara Living Fire and my Militonia Ruby Quarts are getting yellow leaves.. but I think it's due to the new transfer and them "sulking"! Hope they can take it!