Question about s/h.....

[tucker85]

I've spent many years growing orchids and one of the most important elements to success has been to make sure most of them get very dry between waterings. I have switched a couple of phalaenopsis to s/h because that is one species that likes to be moist. But roots have grown to the bottom of the pot and are underwater all the time. I know many people have been very successful with the s/h method. Won't these roots eventually rot? And how can orchids that like to dry out, survive in constant moisture?

[Eyebabe]

From what I understand, if the root has grown down into and is acclimated to the water, it will be fine.
Many of those who have done s/h a long time will testify this but I am new to s/h and my plants have not had the chance to grow that long to achieve this.
My understanding also is when this occurs it means the plant is quite happy with its environment.
Try FirstRays website Lots of good info there!

[trdyl]

Hi Tucker!

Once the roots grow into the solution, the are good unless they get too cold. Lost quite a few Phal roots that way. I have been growing in S/H for the past 6 years. I have about 50 plants in the Cttleya Alliance, mostly species, Phals and a few vandaceous. Tolumniaa are a deffinate no-no. Some vandaceous do really well while others do not like it. I have posted a few photos in my public album of what I have. Also the thread Cattleya speciosissima alba ' Snow Queen' FCC/AOS has been in it for about 2.5 years now and in bloom. This is the first year that I have gotten two flowerings in the same year from it. I only grow in S/H now. Another plus is you can leave them once they are fully established for a few of weeks without any set backs.

[Call_Me_Bob]

if you use a seedling mat to keep the roots warm during the winter, it may help. ive heard of it done before.

[stefpix]

Also sunny windows in the summer can cook the roots in S/H. Had a pepper that wilted because the water in the clear plastic cup heated too much when the sun hit the window for a few hours. Probably good to put clear pot in a clay cache pot in the summer

[zxyqu]

All the above are correct on this one. I've got basically all my orchids in S/H, and as long as they survive the media change, they'll do great. Your question on the root growing into the S/H reservoir is a good one, but as everyone else has said, they'll survive. This is only true however if the root actively grows into the water in the reservoir. If you put the roots that low to start, they'll rot for sure. Also, if you had any doubts on roots in water directly, several people around the forums grow in hydroponics with no media what so ever. Orchid roots themselves are remarkably resilient to most any environment if they grow into it.
As to your second question about drying out, you can let the reservoir dry out for a day. I do this for orchids that like to have a dry out period. As long as it isn't for an extended period you can let it run dry, probably for several days without too much of a problem.