Bareroot Vanda into a vase

[cirillonb]

I am expecting a couple of vandas that will be shipped bareroot. Is it pratical to "plant" these directly into a vase. If so, what does one do to close the neck of the vase lacking a basket or pot? Could one use a loose collar of sphagnum moss...damp or not?
Any hints on the soaking these will need before placing in the vase? How long? What additives to the water?
Thanks,
Nick

[Buds!]

Hi Nick,
I am no vanda expert but this is my understanding:
Vase culture- no media
Pot/ basket culture- Fill in air pockets with growing media.

This link may help you for vase culture:
http://www.orchidboard.com/community...kasa-blue.html

I would suggest you soak the roots in plain water (I use rain water) to make them pliable. Don't fertilize until you see new growth.

It is difficult to set a bare root vanda with no basket in a glass vase.

Alternatively, you can use clear plastic pots and tie the vanda up with wire.

I had the same problem when I received my vandas last week.

I ended up putting two vandas (with baskets) in vases, and one (originally in bark, but fell out of its pot in the post) in a basket with spagnum moss mixed with diatomite.

What is your growing condition?

Maybe some other members from your region can also assist?

[cirillonb]

Buds,
Thanks for the response. I had figured I would need to suspend the orchids in the vase neck with a wire harness.My concern is about the opening. I realize it is essential to the orchid breathing but if too open can enhance evaporation.
I am a gutsy window grower.I'll try almost anything...what's to lose at my age!
East exposure. I am controlling humidity and heat best I can. We do like our summer airconditioner in Northern Virginia.
Thanks again, Nick

[Buds!]

Hi Nick,
This link explains 'vandas in vases':
http://www.orchidboard.com/community...ass-vases.html
The vanda roots in its basket creates a seal in the neck of the vase to a certain extent.
Air movement is still important, even for vandas living in vases.
I hope that helps!