Hydroton or LECA and Bark Mix for repotting phal orchids

[llstl56]

I am getting ready to repot some phals, Has anyone used Hydroton or LECA mixed with bark, what are the results? I also use sphagnum moss in the upper layer of the pot. Has anyone had good results doing this? Thanks

[Xara]

I don't use LECA for orchids; read somewhere that minerals etc are constantly added to the material making it unfit for the plants. I use bark and for some of the more demanding phals, I complement with a little sphagnum moss. I'm not familiar with Hydroton.

[pavel]

Xara, Hydroton and LECA are basically the same thing ... just different brands. Prime Agra is yet another.

I've been using Hydroton in my media for years now (though I will also add that I typically use CHC instead of bark).

[BigSteve]

I use LECA(Hydroton when i get some more) in most of my mixes , have done for years.Helps stop the medium bark getting to compressed , usually put a layer or 2 @ the bottom of the pots to stop water pooling there & help drainage.Does it make a massive difference , mixes seem to last longer before breaking down.

[tucker85]

I use bark mixed with Hydroton or some other LECA for phals and they seem to do well in it.