perlite as medium for s/h?

[(..._...)]

The Best of Growing Edge - Google Book Search

I found this artcle on using perlite. Its about a decade old I think, but I wondered if anyone has tried this method. ( the part about orchids starts on pg 94 of the article)

I want to try s/h, but for plants like miltoniopsis, the LECA seems to be too big for the roots. Would perlite be good to use for s/h?

[Ray]

Take my word for it - the standard 8-16 mm LECA is NOT to large for a miltoniopsis. Remember that the size of the media particles controls the size of the holes in between them, that that's the important aspect. If your particles are too small, the spaces between the particles will be small enough that root growth will block them completely, effectively suffocating themselves.

When I first started experimenting with S/H culture, it was with perlite, including the pebble top later to keep it down when I watered. In not too long of a time, those pebbles worked their way down, where they served no purpose at all.

[(..._...)]

Ok thanks for the help. My miltoniopsis is growing two new growths, as well as sending out lots of new roots. Is now a good time to transplant into semi- hydro? What should I do to keep the plant anchored in the pot?

Thanks

[caseydoll]

If your miltoniopsis is growing new roots and starting new growths then now is the time to switch it. As the new roots grow they will taylor themselves to the new s/h culture. The old roots will more then likely die. I haven't had to anchor any of my orchids in their pots. I usually have enough old healthy roots left that they pretty much hold the orchid in place until the new roots start forming. I think you should be okay.