Will soaking a vanda lead to rot?

[Spotted Milti]

Just bought my first Vanda, and so far I love it! I waited five years but finally folded and decided it was time to try one. I purchased it in a vase but took it out and hung it up by wire on my screened-in porch. It receives dappled light in the morning and southern light in the afternoon. The temps here are gearing up for summer so we're seeing a high of 78-85 in the day and 65-70 at night, which is why I think it'll enjoy being outside. I also run the ceiling fan outside for circulation and the humidity has been high since it sometimes rains the afternoon.

It has a lot of old leaves that were damaged by being scrunched into the vase and some of them have sunburn? They're really discolored. Not sure what happened to the poor thing a long time ago, but the new leaves are huge and green. And all the roots are healthy and really long. A lot of the new roots are fatter and plumper, but higher up on the stem than the older ones.

I know a lot of people soak their vandas every day to every other day and I really think this would work for my routine, as that's how I water all my other orchids. I'm just really concerned that when I soak the Vanda, it could get stem rot or rot on the older leaves. Given sufficient air circulation, I know it might not be an issue, but I wondered if anyone experienced rot in the past by soaking their plants? I think I'm probably being paranoid but just wanted to see what you guys think. Thanks in advance

[fishmom]

Soaking will not cause rot as long as the plant is able to dry out in between soaks. It sounds like your fan will contribute to good air flow. After all, it rains in nature and the plant gets wet--that is what it is adapted to. Your vanda will be happy.

[DeaC]

Hi. I can relate to your story and desire to acquire a Vanda. Ordered a small blooming plant from Motes last yr. and did vase culture as I've read from members here on OB. Am now getting a spike and I'm drunk with power! Saw some lg. hanging plants in Lowes yesterday and just had to try another. I've soaked the first one overnight in the vase with fert. and drain next AM. As long as just the roots are submerged,rot should not occur. Your growing cond. sound better than what I can do but look forward to warmer temps when many can go outside.