Pot sizing for S/H

[kavanaru]

I think I have read somewhere (not sure whether here, at Ray's or at another forum) that the right size of the pot is not as important when S/H than when using other media. Especially not in those cases using a size one or two number higher than what you would normally use with "standard" growing medium. I am now about to start changing some plants to S/H, and am trying to find again where I read it or whether I just imagine it: No success so far!

My issue is that I have two pots not yet assigned to any plant (6'' and 8.5'') and a Brassia which is currently growing in a 5.5'' pot. The 6'' seems to be a bit too tight (5 new PB are starting to grow) and the 8.5'' too big (this pot is hughe: 8.5''X8''). Any suggestions? Am I right assuming that overpotting would not matter too much (appart from wasting too much water )

[kavanaru]

interesting... either OB or my internet connection is playing crazy today.. Why is this 3 times here?

[Becca]

Hi Ramon! You may have read it on Ray's website. In the second to last paragraph in the following link, Ray states that

"For those of you who have a tendency to "over-pot" plants, this culture method may offer you a real "plus," as it appears that plants do quite well in large pots. For example, several years ago I moved an Oncidium Sharry Baby 'Sweet Fragrance' AM/AOS from a 3" pot of bark mix to a 12" Semi-hydro pot, and it has bloomed reliably ever since. In September of 1997, it had 4 spikes carrying over 300 blossoms! When carrying it back to the greenhouse from the household display location (my kitchen), I dropped it, breaking the pot. To my amazement, the entire 12" diameter by 14" tall pot was just FULL of roots!"

Here is the link to the particular page: First Rays' "Semi-Hydroponic - TM" Culture

Hope this helps!

[Ray]

Go with the 8.5-incher

[kavanaru]

Thanks a lot! I'll go for the 8.5'' with the Brassia and keep you informed...