Intro to Semi Hydro?

[swords]

I'm new to the term/idea of Semi-Hydroponics. As I page through the posts here it looks like most of you are growing in undrained clear containers of Leca or Hydroton. Do you ever eventually drain these pots or just let them go until dry? Do you use hoses and pumps or just fill with water/fert solution? Do the plants grow faster this way to blooming than potted or mounted or pretty much about the same?

Is there a good introductory starter page or post here that explains what you guys are doing and why?

[Zoi2]

The pots are not undrained, they actually have two holes about and inch from the bottom. This keeps water/fertilizer in the reservoir. When you water, you flush the pots which keeps a fresh supply of water and fertilizer for the plant. The leca wicks moisture so the roots are kept as moist or as dry as the plant prefers.
I prefer to grow this way, it's easier to water, the leca is reusable and I don't have to deal with gnats or organic potting media.
Here is a link you might be interest in:
How to pot an Orchid using the Semi-Hydroponic method.
Joann

[trdyl]

Here is another very good link for S/H info:

All about Semi-Hydroponics

[swords]

Thanks for the links folks!

What is Dyna Grow K-L-N ? Is it basically no different than Hormonex liquid rooting/cutting formula? Is it totally necessary when transferring into clay media? Why does that one page show Listerine, hydrogen peroxide and isopropyl alcohol when discussing K-L-N?

My local orchid shop (O. Ltd) has the Alliflor clay substrate so I was thinking it would be fun to try growing a Phrag. pearceii this way.

[Tindomul]

Here is an article that was written by an Orchid Board member and published here. Hope it helps.
Semi-Hydroponic - Orchid Board