Need input on Sphag-n-Bag

[mjsdas]

I recently repotted a couple Catts into S&H and am trying the Spag-n-Bag approach to help induce them to send out new roots. How long do you normally keep the orchids in the bag? Do you keep the bag completely sealed or leave a small opening for some air to get in? Do the orchids need to be watered at all while they are in the bag? Any other tips on this process would be appreciated. Thank you.

[Ray]

I cannot believe this question has just been sitting here unanswered.... Sorry.

There are lots of variations, and a lot depends upon your ambient conditions and the condition of the plant.

If you're growing in a very dry environment, close the bag, and it will not need watering, even though it may stay in there for a month or more.

You can also leave the top open, but then you will have to water periodically, as that bag will be losing the moisture to the air in the room.

Either way, keep the plant in the bag until new roots begin to form.

[mjsdas]

Thanks for responding Ray.

I have the orchids in new S&H in new clear plastic zip lock bags under my T5 lights away from direct sun.

I came up with a novel way to vent the bag a little. I first zip up the top of the bag and in the corner, I put a piece of plastic drinking straw. The straw is held in place only by the zip lock. It still stays very humid in the bag but the straw allows a little air movement, which is important at night when the plants are in the dark. I've been doing it this way for two weeks and the orchid seem to be doing great. I only had to add a very small amount of water to the pots in the bags. The leaves have no wrinkles whatsoever. So far so good.