Quote Originally Posted by stateless View Post
I've heard to never mist, however last year I got a patio mist system that I set up for my vandas and used during summer and it seemed to work wonders, it would lower the temp a little and the vanda roots loved it, I saw an impressive difference in a few months, lots of new root growth and stonger roots. I grow outside 24/7. But to use a spray bottle forget it I would need a prosthetic finger by now.
I can see why a patio mist system would be beneficial to Vandas, mostly because the roots are completely exposed and can actually absorb the moisture from the mist. Most orchids have their roots submerged in potting media, so all you're doing by misting them is getting the leaves wet, which can lead to fungus. But I can definitely see how it would be helpful in an outside situation where you're looking to ease the hot temps. It makes me think of walking through one of those "mist stations" you see at amusement parks in the hot summer! Aaahhhhh....

I think it would probably be useful for mounted orchids too....although I don't grow any on mounts, it would just make sense that, because the roots are exposed, they'd benefit from being able to absorb the moisture. I think Jeff stated it well when he mentioned that, in general, it's not a good idea to mist indoor orchids. That makes sense.

So I guess the answer to the "Mist or Not?" question depends on your growing conditions, really!