Newbie with S/H questions

[svlair]

Hello! I am new to this board and orchid growing. In only four months I have assembled a collection of eight Phals and all are doing well in traditional culture. Seven of the eight are still in bloom so only one has been repotted. The Phals are in a variety of media and pot sizes so each seems to be on its own watering schedule. I water at least one of them every day. I would like to get them all on a similar schedule. I have a few questions about S/H.

1. With multiple orchids in S/H does each orchid have its own reservoir?

2. Is the reservoir filled with water only or a weak fertilizer solution?

3. If fertilizer solution, how do you compensate for evaporation in the reservoir without concentrating the nutrient solution?

Thanks for the input.

[escualida]

I'm no expert but I'll try to answer to the best of my knowledge:

Originally Posted by svlair

1. With multiple orchids in S/H does each orchid have its own reservoir?

Yes, this prevents the exchange of diseases from one plant to another

Originally Posted by svlair

2. Is the reservoir filled with water only or a weak fertilizer solution?

You should fertilize weakly but also flush out regularly with regular water so that the salts don't build up.

Originally Posted by svlair

3. If fertilizer solution, how do you compensate for evaporation in the reservoir without concentrating the nutrient solution?

See question 2.

[Bud]

read Ray's S/H topic at:

Orchid Growing Supplies Semi-hydroponics Hydroponics Orchid Books PrimeAgra

most of your questions are addressed there

[svlair]

Thanks for the input. I now have a better understanding of S/H culture. I will order supplies and begin with my next repotting.

[POLKA]

<quote> In only four months I have assembled a collection of eight Phals <endquote>

Hmmm.....your orchid addiction is coming along a bit slow, eh??

<grin>

Great growing
Rex

[svlair]

Yes, but limited by lack of space. This will change with the purchase of a new grow light cart next month!