Pot size for S/H

[Sevelina]

I found a lot of information for choosing a pot size for standard media like bark or moss, but not sure if the same rules apply to semi-hydroponic method. Should I also look for smallest pot the roots will fit in? From pictures of other people growing orchids in clay balls semi-hydroponically, pots seem quite large for orchid size.

Are there any rules regarding width/height ratio, since water-wicking upwards is a key element of S/H?

I would be interested to learn people's experiences or if there are any "established" rules regarding this.

[Ray]

There are no hard and fast rules in orchid growing, as there are simply too many variables that can differ grower-to-grower, in their individual environments.

That said, my general practice is to go slightly larger.

If you have a decent quality LECA that wicks well, over potting becomes much less of a concern, as the uniform distribution of the moisture prevents the formation of a "soppy" core, right in the middle of the root zone.

[Sevelina]

Thanks, Ray. I have LECA from Ikea, divided according to size so the pieces can be a bit more uniform in a single pot.

I am thinking to test the wicking action in a selected pot before cutting the drainage holes and before adding the orchid. Would you have any tips regarding how long the top of the medium should stay moist to indicate a proper reservoir size for my conditions? Or does this just depend on how often I would prefer to water? From what I understand, the top should never really go fully dry to prevent salt build-up.

[Subrosa]

I like a pot with a bit of extra room when initially transitioning a plant to s/h. It lets me pot a bit deeper than "normal" which I find helps with the initial transition. After the plant is established I gently pull up on the plant while shaking the pot. I set the plant at the desired level and then back fill with more leca

[Sevelina]

Thanks for the tip, Subrosa! Is this to keep more moisture in the rooting area to help the new roots grow better, or to keep the plant more stable in the media while it gets established?

[Subrosa]

Both.