What would you do??? - Orchid Board

caseydoll · #1 02-12-2008, 05:37 PM

After much debate in my head I decided to get an opinion from you guys.

I have one den that I've had for several months that is putting out some new roots around one of it's canes. It's basically a noid but it's the kind that doesn't really need a winter rest. Since it's putting out new roots I figure that now is the time to repot (it's in lava rock now). I was orginally going to just put it into primeagra (not s/h though) but now i'm thinking of doing the whole s/h thing with it. I've never had a den before so I thought putting it into s/h would solve my when to water problem. But at the same time I really don't want to kill it since I have falled deeply in love with it.

I have about 4 phals, and 2 onc. in s/h already and everything has been good so far and at least I have some experience with it now. So I just want to know what you guys would do if it was your den? Do dens usually take to it okay or are they one of the more fussy ones? I simply can't make up my mind and would love to here your opinions! Please, please help me decide! Thanks so much!

Becca · #2 02-12-2008, 07:19 PM

Hi Sarah! I have quite a few den's in s/h....both the soft cane and hard cane. Some seem to take right to it, while others kind of pout for a while....but for the most part, my experience with dens in s/h are mostly good! Hope this helps!

CoolPhrog · #3 02-12-2008, 09:18 PM

I have a noid den that I converted to s/h and is in the "pouting" stage right now. From everything I "heard" said here and read online, it's normal for them to be "whiny"....I'll be interested in hearing more about your decision.

quiltergal · #4 02-13-2008, 01:46 AM

Dens tend to sulk after any repotting, s/h or otherwise. I don't think the move from lava rock to primeagra is going to be that big of a difference for it. I'd go for it.

Ray · #5 02-13-2008, 07:04 AM

This thread provides me with a great opportunity to point out something significant that folks always seem to forget: semi-hydroponics (or any other culture method), by itself, does not "kill" plants. It is the sum of all of the environmental conditions, the timing, and you that determine whether a plant will thrive or die.

Case in point - Becca, who I think will agree that she's not the most experienced orchid grower - has no issues with dens in s/h culture. I, on the other hand, having grown orchids for 35 years and the inventor of semi-hydro culture, will kill the little bastards every time I try.

Becca · #6 02-13-2008, 09:42 AM

I definitely agree with Ray!

What about trying out EpiWeb, although it would require daily watering I am sure.

caseydoll · #7 02-20-2008, 06:33 PM

So sorry it took me so long to thank you guys for the great advice! I STILL haven't decided what to do. I'm not afraid moving it to s/h will kill it, I'm afraid I will! The fact that I seem to be no good with anything other that phals is scaring me. I know dens can be touchy for some people so I'm sure my time is coming soon! Thanks again for the great replies and I'll keep you all posted on what I decide to do.