When should I water Paphs.?

[Bmorepaph]

I recently potted some of my paphs in primeagra. How low below the holes should I let the resevoir recede before I water? It seems that on a few the PA has been wicking the water up very fast, and I have had to water every two days. I am pretty sure though this is because these particular paphs. are too close to my fan. I have moved them and expect that this should correct the problem. I am unclear as to whether I should let the resevoir completely deplete prior to watering, or if I should water rather liberally. I am really scared of rot!!!
Thanks.

[philoserenus]

supposively if the roots get enough air, water lots will not rot it, mine's in hydroton with reservoir. and i water mines very freely about twice a week right now b/c the heat is really drying things up, but thatz only my 2cent, lets hear it from others ^^

[Becca]

The best person to ask is Ray, so hopefully he will respond soon. From what I know, it is impossible to over water with s/h. I was told, or so I thought, that you could water daily and it shouldn't make a difference, but I could be wrong on that. I hope you repotted when you saw new root growth, other wise there is a great risk of the old roots rotting since they are not use to the s/h culture. Some orchids respond this way with old roots rotting and some just take right to it. I have several paph's potted in s/h and one took right to it and the other hasn't. You just have to have patience as they will put new roots out eventually. Just my experience, but let's wait to here what others have to say!

[Ray]

Believe it or not, there is an advantage to watering quite frequently.

From a moisture perspective, it doesn't matter if you water daily or as the reservoir dries out. From the nutrient chemistry perspective, more frequent watering is better.

Look at it this way: as th plant absorbs nutrients, the reservoir chemistry changes. If you water frequently, you return the reservoir to"baseline" levels.

[IdahoOrchid]

Even in s/h you need to be aware of how much you water. Nick, I thought that about frequent watering too and have had a few plants not appreciate it and perished. You still need to be aware of each plants/species needs for watering. Brachy's, while they can do well in s/h, still need to be kept on the dryer side of things. Other paphs and orchids can take a wetter environment.

I have actually have some species that do well in s/h and a few individuals of the same species have problems. It is a complex situation so don't get caught in generalities. Watch each and every plant for signs of stress or not taking to ANY culture you are trying, especially if you are new to it.

Maybe as my plant mature and acclimate to s/h I will be able to water more frequently.

[Ray]

I think acclimation is the key, Steven. All of my plants get watered on the same schedule, which is pretty frequently, and they all - including brachy's, do fine.

[Bmorepaph]

Thanks for the advice guys. I use rainwater to water my plants so I want to be as conservative as possible. I only have about 20 or so plants so my collection system is not that extensive and I don't really have a surplus right now. I will keep you updated!