does a dendrobium planted in lava rock need more frequent watering?

[AngelinaMaria]

This may be a dumb question but im kinda new to orchids. The most recent orchid i bought is planted in lava rock. The tag on the plant just says Den Hybrid. The lady at the nursery where i got it said that it pretty much requires similar care to Phalaenopsis but likes more light. I just wasnt sure if since its in lava rock it might need to be watered more often than my Phals that are planted in bark or moss. I've attached a couple pics of it. I just love the flowers on it! Thats what drew me to it, and it was on the 50% off table so that made it even better!

[katrina]

You are right on target there...yes, anything planted in lava rock will require more frequent watering than sphag or even bark because it dries out a good deal faster than the other 2 mediums.

Depending on the light and heat in your grow space you might find that daily watering is necessary in order to ensure proper hydration.

The really nice thing about a medium like lava rock is that you rarely have to be concerned about over-watering and it won't break down so when it's time for a bigger pot you can up-pot w/out disturbing the roots.

[AngelinaMaria]

ok, cool. The roots are coming out of the bottom of the pot that its in. Its in a black pot so i cant really see the roots other than whats growing out of the bottom. Should i repot it? Also, the roots are a white color, is that what they should look like? When i got it the roots were pretty dried out. Once i watered it when i got it home the roots looked better. Ive only had phalaenopsis so i know what their roots should look like and these roots are totally different looking. Thanks!

[AngelinaMaria]

If I repot it should i put in a clear pot like my phals?