hydroton s/h start up

[Eyebabe]

Originally Posted by Ray

Why would you add an antiseptic to the soak water? The LECA certainly harbors no life forms, and you're sure not adding it with rooting hormones or fertilizer.

I don't know this for a fact, but might not the antiseptic decompose the hormones?

I did not think two drops of Physan per gallon (or two) would do anything to the hormones
I simply add it as my weak effort to control algae.

[Eyebabe]

Originally Posted by magicatt

I will cut out the mush root mess for sure.

I have some root tone hormone powder. Can I use that mixed in some water? How much a quarter tsp per gallon? I don't know how to use it for orchids, I use it on my african violet leaves...I will afford a heat mat in two months from now. Several actually.

I keep my house in the seventies so not too cold I hope. I didn't do my phallies because everyone here seemed to concur that they don't like cold feet and I cannot afford the heat mats just yet. They all look plump and juicy today. Tomorrow I will unpot each one and clean up any root rot mess. Some of the roots still look green and nice so I am cheering them on. Thank you for all the input and advice.

The powder is not recommended
The strongest rooting agent I use is KLN and the strongest strength I've used is 1 tsp per gallon.
I have since decreased it to 1/2 tsp per gallon and get equivalent results.

[Ray]

Originally Posted by Eyebabe

I did not think two drops of Physan per gallon (or two) would do anything to the hormones
I simply add it as my weak effort to control algae.

hah! I was thinking along the lines of a teaspoon. maybe it won't affect it at all.

[Paddle_grl]

I've re-potted mine numerous times with out regard for new roots growing...but then I can't think of a time when there wasn't new roots growing...hmm...Since I have all of mine in a lighted cabinet, and I find clear things to put them in, I place them in pots to prevent mold growth from the lights. Then only thing I use to water mine is Orchid focus grow and bloom, they seem happy enough with it, and I only water them once a week when I remember!

[Wrebbitrocks]

hey, how are the plants doing? love to see/hear any updates on the health of your plants. getting any blooms yet?